Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

If you love cheesy, hearty meals, then Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is the perfect dish for you! Combining tender chicken, flavorful Monterey Jack cheese, and a rich, creamy sauce with spaghetti, this dish is a fusion of comfort food and bold flavors. It’s the perfect family dinner or potluck favorite, and it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (about 2 chicken breasts)
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
• ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
• ½ cup bacon bits (optional for topping)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika, allowing the spices to toast lightly for about 30 seconds to release their flavors.

Step 5: Add the cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, sour cream, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine, creating a smooth sauce. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes.

Step 6: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, and cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Step 7: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 8: Transfer the spaghetti mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of Monterey Jack cheese on top, along with optional bacon bits for added flavor and texture.

Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you want a golden-brown top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Step 10: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Cooking Notes:

• Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook chicken breasts and shred them yourself. If you prefer dark meat, substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Cheese Options: While Monterey Jack cheese is mild and creamy, you can also experiment with pepper jack for a spicy kick or a combination of different cheeses like mozzarella for extra meltiness.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add more veggies such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to up the nutritional value.

Serving Suggestions:

• Side Dishes: Serve your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti with a light green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Toppings: Try adding sliced green onions, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. For a smoky crunch, sprinkle crispy bacon bits or crushed tortilla chips on top.

Tips:

1. Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover with foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes if chilled.
2. Freezing: This dish freezes well! Prepare the recipe up to the baking step, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
3. Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, use regular diced tomatoes instead of tomatoes with green chilies, and reduce the amount of chili powder.

Prep Time:

• 20 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 25 minutes

Total Time:

• 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

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Conclusion:

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked spaghetti all wrapped in a rich, flavorful sauce. This baked casserole is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It’s creamy, cheesy, and filled with zesty flavors from the tomatoes and spices, guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a meal you’ll love to revisit!

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