Description

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that combines tender shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a luscious cheese sauce made with cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Topped with melted Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, this baked casserole is perfect for a family dinner or potluck.

Ingredients

Scale

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 cup milk (or chicken broth for a lighter version)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
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 the vegetables are soft and slightly browned.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir into the skillet the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk. Cook, stirring often, for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
Add Chicken and Cheese: 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 through.
Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the creamy chicken sauce. Mix well to evenly coat the pasta with the sauce.
Optional Baking Step: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top evenly with the remaining Monterey Jack and shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti warm for a delicious, comforting meal.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute the milk with chicken broth.
You can use any pasta shape you prefer if spaghetti is not available.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
Adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a nice mild heat variation.
Use fresh mushrooms and bell peppers for best flavor and texture.
This dish can be made ahead and baked just before serving to save time.

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

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