Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a delightful blend of flavors, bursting with creamy textures and loaded with hearty ingredients that the whole family will adore. This dish combines succulent chicken, pasta, and a rich cheese sauce, making it a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to try your hand at Monterey Chicken Spaghetti. First and foremost, it’s a versatile dish that you can customize based on your family’s preferences or what you have in your pantry. Whether you like it extra cheesy or loaded with vegetables, this recipe can evolve to fit your taste. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken, and it proves to be a champion in meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and even frozen for later use. This recipe is not just tasty; it’s also designed to bring warmth and comfort, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings.

How to Make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Making Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a straightforward process, taking only a short amount of time to whip it up. Here’s how to create this scrumptious dish!

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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)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Begin by boiling the spaghetti according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms, sautéing them for 5-7 minutes until they are soft and slightly browned. This will enhance their flavors and provide a great base for your dish.

3. 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 this mixture for 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth and heated through.

4. Add Chicken and Cheese:
   Mix in the shredded cooked chicken and 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the chicken to warm up.

5. Combine with Pasta:
   Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the cheesy sauce and chicken mixture. Make sure to mix well to ensure every bite is coated in that creamy goodness.

6. Optional Baking Step:
   For an extra touch, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top it off with the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Pro Tips for Success Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta:
   It’s essential to cook the spaghetti al dente since it will continue to cook slightly when baked.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients:
   Fresh vegetables can elevate the flavor of your dish. Try using seasonal vegetables to add more color and nutrition.

3. Experiment with Cheeses:
   Feel free to mix in other types of cheese such as pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.

4. Adjust the Creaminess:
   If you want a lighter version, substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt or use chicken broth instead of milk.

5. Make Ahead:
   This recipe stores well. You can prepare it a day in advance and bake it right before serving.

6. Garnish Thoughtfully:
   A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only adds color but can enhance the flavor profile of your dish significantly.

Flavor Variations Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

1. Veggie Boost:
   Add more sautéed vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or broccoli for a nutritious upgrade.

2. Spicy Twist:
   Incorporate jalapeños or add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce for some heat.

3. Italian Flair:
   Toss in Italian herbs such as oregano or basil to bring a classic Italian flavor to the dish.

4. Mexican Style:
   Swap half of the Monterey Jack cheese with a Mexican blend cheese and add a can of diced green chilies for a fun twist.

5. BBQ Chicken Version:
   Use BBQ sauce instead of cream of chicken soup for a smoky flavor that offers a unique take on this classic dish.

Serving Suggestions Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes for a perfect accompaniment that everyone will enjoy.
• Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli or asparagus is a healthy choice that adds vibrancy to the meal.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a delightful crunch, complementing the creamy pasta.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Refrigeration:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
If you want to save it for later, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti freezes well. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake until warmed through.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|————–|————-|———–|———|———–|————|
| 450 | 29g | 32g | 22g | 2g | 710 mg |

FAQ About Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with any pasta of your choice such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

If you’re looking for alternatives, you could use a homemade cream sauce or a roux made from butter, flour, and milk. For a lighter option, consider using a pureed vegetable soup or a plant-based cream substitute.

How can I adjust the recipe to serve a larger group?

If you’re serving a larger crowd, simply multiply each ingredient by the number of servings needed. Use a larger baking dish to accommodate the extra pasta and ensure even heating.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and add an array of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. You might also consider using plant-based proteins like chickpeas or lentils for added substance.

Is Monterey Chicken Spaghetti suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time, store it in individual containers, and reheat servings as needed during the week.

Can I add more cheese?

Feel free to get creative with your cheese choices! Mixing different kinds of cheeses will not only provide more flavor but also enhance the gooey texture that everyone loves.

Final Thoughts

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is not just a recipe; it’s a wonderful way to bring your loved ones together over a hearty meal. With its creamy sauce, savory chicken, and delightful textures, it is bound to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the traditional flavors or experiment with exciting variations, you’ll find joy in every delicious bite. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and create memories around the dinner table that will last a lifetime!

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

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• Author: recipesforcook
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None specified

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Description

A delightful blend of creamy textures and hearty ingredients, this dish combines succulent chicken, pasta, and a rich cheese sauce, perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms, sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk. Cook for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
4. Add Chicken and Cheese: Mix in shredded chicken and 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, cooking until cheese melts, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine with Pasta: Toss cooked spaghetti with the sauce mixture until well combined.
6. Optional Baking Step: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes.
7. Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt and milk with chicken broth.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 710mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 80mg