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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

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★★★★★

4.1 from 79 reviews

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting and creamy pasta casserole that combines tender shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a rich cheese sauce made with cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and Monterey Jack cheese. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner, featuring a baked cheesy topping that’s golden and bubbling.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein & Pasta

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 chicken breasts)
  • 8 oz spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)

Vegetables

  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced

Dairy & Sauces

  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (divided)
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup milk (or chicken broth for lighter version)

Oils & Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside for later use.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are soft and slightly browned, enhancing their natural flavors.
  3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk into the skillet with the vegetables. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and heated through, forming a rich and flavorful base.
  4. Add Chicken and Cheese: Mix in the shredded cooked chicken and 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts completely and the chicken is warmed evenly.
  5. Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the creamy chicken and vegetable sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure every strand of pasta is well coated with the sauce.
  6. Optional Baking Step: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese and the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  7. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden, creating a delicious crusty top layer.
  8. Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute the spaghetti with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini.
  • For a lighter option, use chicken broth instead of milk and low-fat sour cream.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
  • Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to reduce prep time.

Keywords: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, cheesy chicken pasta bake, creamy chicken pasta casserole, easy family dinner, baked spaghetti casserole

Find it online: https://foodiecara.com/monterey-chicken-spaghetti-recipe/