Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

Introduction

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that combines tender shredded chicken with sautéed vegetables and rich Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses. It’s an easy comfort food perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with family and friends.

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 to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until 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 Monterey Jack cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the chicken is warmed.
6. Step 6: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the 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 (optional): Top with the remaining Monterey Jack and shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Step 9: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use chicken broth instead of milk for a lighter sauce without losing flavor.
• Try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
• Leftover Monterey Chicken Spaghetti can be reheated on the stove or in the oven for best results.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. If baked, you can reheat in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly, about 15 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.

Is it necessary to bake the dish after mixing the pasta and sauce?

No, baking is optional. You can enjoy the dish right after mixing the pasta and sauce. Baking adds a cheesy, bubbly topping and slightly crisp edges if you prefer.

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.8 from 93 reviews

• Author: Gabriel
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy pasta casserole featuring tender shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses. This comforting dish combines rich flavors and simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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 Cheese

• 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)

Garnish

• 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 sticking.
2. 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 softened and slightly browned, enhancing their flavor.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the can of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk (or chicken broth). Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth, well combined, and heated through.
4. Add Chicken and Cheese: Mix in the shredded cooked chicken and 1/2 cup of the Monterey Jack cheese. Cook the mixture for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts completely and the chicken is thoroughly warmed.
5. Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the creamy chicken and vegetable sauce. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
6. 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. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese evenly on top.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese topping is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy Monterey Chicken Spaghetti.

Notes

• You can substitute milk with chicken broth for a lighter sauce.
• Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer or have on hand.
• Additional vegetables like zucchini or spinach can be added for more nutrition.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing vegetables.
• The baking step is optional but adds a delicious cheesy crust to the dish.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated well.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, creamy chicken pasta, cheesy chicken casserole, baked pasta dish