Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Introduction
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting and creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and melted cheeses in a savory sauce. It’s perfect for a family dinner or when you want something hearty yet simple to prepare.
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
- Step 1: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Step 3: Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and slightly browned.
- Step 4: Stir in the 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.
- Step 5: Mix in the shredded cooked chicken and 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the chicken is warmed.
- Step 6: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Step 7: (Optional) Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Step 8: Top with the remaining Monterey Jack and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Step 9: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 10: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Use chicken broth instead of milk for a lighter sauce.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild spicy kick.
- Try swapping bell peppers for diced tomatoes for a slightly different flavor.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Leftover Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese works well for topping as well.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to prevent the sauce from breaking. If baked, you can reheat covered in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option that works perfectly for this dish.
Is it necessary to bake the dish after mixing the pasta and sauce?
The baking step is optional and adds a nice cheesy crust, but you can skip it and serve the pasta directly from the skillet for a quicker meal.
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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish featuring shredded cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a rich sauce made from cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheeses. This comforting casserole can be quickly prepared on the stovetop and optionally baked for a bubbly, golden cheese topping – perfect for a family dinner or potluck meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 chicken breasts)
- 8 oz spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
Vegetables and Sauce
- 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
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup milk (or chicken broth for a lighter version)
Cheeses and Garnish
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (divided: 1/2 cup for cooking, 1/2 cup for topping)
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 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 slight browning, enhancing their flavor.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce is smooth, well combined, and heated through.
- Add Chicken and Cheese: Mix in the shredded cooked chicken and 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese into the sauce. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the chicken is warmed evenly.
- Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the creamy chicken mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Optional Baking Step: If you prefer a baked casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly top with the remaining 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese and 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven if baked. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- You can substitute the milk with chicken broth for a lighter sauce.
- Any pasta shape can be used; spaghetti is traditional but penne or rotini work well too.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a mild heat if desired.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, creamy chicken pasta, cheesy chicken casserole, comfort food, easy dinner recipe
