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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a delightful dish that combines the comforting aspects of pasta with the savory richness of chicken, topped with two kinds of cheese for a heavenly finish. A family favorite in our household, this recipe has saved many busy weeknights and provided nourishment during gatherings with friends. With a perfect balance of creamy sauce and colorful veggies, it’s not just about the taste—it’s about creating memories around the dinner table.
What Makes This Recipe Special
There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with Monterey Chicken Spaghetti. First and foremost, it’s a one-pot wonder—making cleanup a breeze after enjoying a hearty meal. This dish is incredibly versatile too; you can prepare it with what you have on hand, making it a budget-friendly choice that fits seamlessly into any lifestyle. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, a potluck gathering, or when you simply want to treat yourself after a long day.
“This recipe quickly became a staple in our home! It’s creamy, cheesy, and satisfies everyone at the table without breaking the bank!”
Preparing Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Creating this delicious dish is straightforward, even for novice cooks. With just a handful of steps, you’ll transform common ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that showcases comfort food at its finest. Get ready to sauté, stir, and combine as you embark on this easy journey to flavor!
What you’ll need
- 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 substitute with other veggies or chicken alternatives as needed to suit your dietary preferences!
Step-by-Step Directions
- Begin by boiling the spaghetti according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are softened and slightly browned.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
- Mix in the cooked chicken along with 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Allow this to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the chicken is warmed.
- Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, mixing well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- (Optional) Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
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Best Way to Serve
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti offers endless serving possibilities. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a crisp garden salad or garlic bread. This dish also stands alone, thanks to its creamy texture and delightful flavors. You can also sprinkle with extra parsley or even some crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat!
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely with how delicious this dish is!), storing them is simple. Allow the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container and it will keep for about 2-3 months. Always ensure to reheat leftovers to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Helpful Hints
To elevate the flavor even further, consider sautéing some minced garlic along with the vegetables for an aromatic boost. You can also add some steamed broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition and a pop of color!
Recipe Variations
Looking to change things up? Try adding different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicy kick or incorporating diced tomatoes for added moisture and freshness. For a lighter version, replace the cream of chicken soup with a homemade white sauce or swap sour cream with Greek yogurt to give it a tangy twist.
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for Monterey Chicken Spaghetti?
Prep time is approximately 15 minutes, while cooking takes about 30 minutes.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly, and it might take a little longer to warm through.
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute it with a homemade white sauce (butter, flour, chicken broth, and cream) or even a can of cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
Whether you’re craving something comforting or looking to impress at your next gathering, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a recipe you won’t want to miss. It’s creamy, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy!
Print
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, cheesy dish combining pasta and shredded chicken, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- Begin by boiling the spaghetti according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are softened and slightly browned.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
- Mix in the cooked chicken along with 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Allow this to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the chicken is warmed.
- Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, mixing well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- (Optional) Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Feel free to substitute with other veggies or chicken alternatives as needed to suit your dietary preferences. For added flavor, sauté garlic with the vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, pasta recipes, one-pot meals, comfort food, family dinner
