Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Creating a comforting meal that pleases a crowd can often feel like a culinary challenge. But let me share a favorite quick and creamy dish that fits the bill beautifully: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti. This recipe combines the classic flavors of chicken and pasta with a creamy sauce and melted cheese, making it a delightful weeknight dinner or a special gathering dish. Having made it for years, I can assure you that it not only satisfies cravings but also invites seconds, and with each bite, it wraps you in the warmth of home-cooked goodness.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why should you add Monterey Chicken Spaghetti to your meal repertoire? For starters, it’s a powerhouse of flavor combined with simplicity. This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when time seems scarce. The creamy, cheesy sauce envelops tender chicken and pasta, offering a dish that’s both comforting and hearty.

Not to mention, it’s budget-friendly! With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a feast that pleases even the pickiest eaters—making it a go-to for families. The combination of rich flavors, creamy textures, and ease of preparation are what make this dish a standout choice.

"This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti became an instant family favorite! The kids gobbled it up, and I loved how simple it was to make." – A Happy Home Cook

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Ready to whip up a delicious dinner that everyone will love? Let me guide you through each step of preparing this mouthwatering dish. We’ll begin with boiling the spaghetti, sautéing some fresh vegetables, and creating a rich creamy sauce that brings the whole dish together.

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need to create this tasty Monterey Chicken Spaghetti:

• 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)

Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or use leftover chicken to customize this dish even further!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they soften and begin to brown slightly.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and heated through.

4. Add Chicken and Cheese: Fold in the shredded chicken and 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and the chicken is warmed.

5. Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the creamy sauce, mixing well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

6. Optional Baking Step: If you’d like a baked version, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, then bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Best Way to Serve

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is incredibly versatile! Serve it as a stand-alone dish, or pair it with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a side of steamed green beans also complements this cheesy pasta dish beautifully. For an extra touch, consider a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Best Way to Store Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to store your delicious creation:

• Refrigeration: Store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then microwave or bake until heated through. Just add a splash of milk to reintroduce some moisture!

Pro Chef Tips

• For Extra Creaminess: Mix in a little more sour cream or cream cheese for an even richer texture.
• Veggie Boost: Add spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese Choices: Feel free to swap Monterey Jack and cheddar for your favorite melting cheeses like Gouda or Havarti.

Creative Twists

Want to switch it up? Here are a few ideas:

• Tex-Mex Flair: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a southwestern version.
• Italian Style: Swap the cream of chicken soup with marinara and sprinkle fresh basil.
• Vegetarian Option: Use sautéed zucchini and squash instead of chicken for a delightful meatless meal.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare Monterey Chicken Spaghetti?
The total time is approximately 40-50 minutes, including prep and cooking.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds fantastic flavor.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, this creamy and cheesy pasta is usually a hit with kids and adults alike!

With all these tips and tricks, you’re set to create a memorable dish that will have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy making Monterey Chicken Spaghetti a part of your family meals.

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A creamy and cheesy dish combining chicken and pasta for a comforting meal that pleases a crowd.

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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 the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they soften and begin to brown slightly.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
4. Add Chicken and Cheese: Fold in the shredded chicken and 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and the chicken is warmed.
5. Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the creamy sauce, mixing well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
6. Optional Baking Step: If you’d like a baked version, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, then bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or use leftover chicken to customize this dish further.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: chicken, pasta, creamy, cheese, family meal