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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

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4.9 from 62 reviews

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish combining tender shredded chicken with sautéed vegetables, a rich sauce made from cream of chicken soup and sour cream, and melted Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this flavorful casserole can be made stove-top or baked to bubbly perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Pasta

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

Vegetables

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

Sauce and Seasoning

  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup milk (or chicken broth for a lighter version)

Cheese and Garnish

  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (divided into 1/2 cup each)
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside to prevent overcooking.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and develop a slight golden color.
  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 for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously, until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
  4. Add Chicken and Cheese: Mix the shredded cooked chicken and 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese into the sauce. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and chicken to warm thoroughly.
  5. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, tossing well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy chicken and vegetable sauce.
  6. Optional Baking Step: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese and 1/2 cup cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
  7. Serve: Garnish the baked Monterey Chicken Spaghetti with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm for a hearty meal.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add jalapeños or red chili flakes during the vegetable sauté step.
  • Use canned chicken for a quicker preparation option.
  • To make this dish gluten-free, opt for gluten-free pasta and ensure the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.
  • When reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to refresh and loosen the sauce.

Keywords: Monterey chicken spaghetti, creamy chicken pasta, baked chicken spaghetti casserole, cheesy chicken pasta, easy dinner recipes

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