Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

Introduction

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that combines tender shredded chicken with sautéed vegetables and melted Monterey Jack cheese. It’s a comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want something hearty and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 chicken breasts)
• 8 oz spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 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)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Step 3: Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and slightly browned.
4. Step 4: Stir in cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
5. Step 5: Mix in the cooked shredded chicken and 1/2 cup of the Monterey Jack cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the chicken is warmed.
6. Step 6: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Mix well to coat the pasta evenly.
7. Step 7: (Optional) Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Step 9: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute chicken broth for milk in the sauce.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Try adding other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
• If you prefer a crustier top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much when reheated, stir in a splash of milk or broth to loosen it.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, this recipe works well with any pasta shape you like, such as penne, rotini, or fettuccine. Just cook according to package directions.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the pasta and sauce, then assemble it in the baking dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.7 from 149 reviews

• Author: Victor
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy pasta casserole loaded with tender shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a rich sauce made from cream of chicken soup and sour cream. This comforting dish is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner, combining the flavors of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese with the wholesome texture of spaghetti and fresh veggies. Optional baking adds a golden bubbly cheese topping, elevating this classic casserole.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 chicken breasts)

Pasta & Grains

• 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

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup milk (or chicken broth for a lighter version)

Pantry & Spices

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

---

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
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 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and slightly browned.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk into the skillet with vegetables. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
4. Add Chicken and Cheese: Mix in the shredded cooked chicken and 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese into the sauce. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts and the chicken is warmed through.
5. Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy chicken mixture. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
6. Optional Baking Step: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the pasta. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese has melted completely and is bubbly and golden.
8. Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting Monterey Chicken Spaghetti.

Notes

• For a lighter option, substitute milk with chicken broth.
• You can use any type of pasta, such as penne or rotini, instead of spaghetti.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
• Omitting the baking step makes for a quicker stovetop casserole.
• Add some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Fresh parsley adds a touch of color and freshness when garnishing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, chicken spaghetti casserole, creamy chicken pasta, baked pasta casserole, easy chicken dinner, comfort food