Name: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
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 (divided); 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)

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Introduction

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting, creamy pasta dish loaded with tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a blend of melted cheeses. Perfect for a family dinner, it combines simple ingredients into a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.

A white bowl holds a dish of spaghetti pasta mixed with small pieces of white chicken and bits of red sun-dried tomatoes scattered throughout. The pasta is coated lightly in oil with some green parsley leaves sprinkled on top for color. The noodles are slightly shiny with a soft texture, and the chicken pieces are tender and slightly browned. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are soft and slightly browned.
Step 3: Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
Step 4: Add the shredded chicken and 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring until the cheese melts and the chicken is warmed.
Step 5: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Mix well to coat the spaghetti evenly.
Step 6 (Optional): Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 7 (Optional): Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Step 8: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Add diced jalapeños or red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Use canned chicken for a quicker preparation.
For a gluten-free dish, choose gluten-free pasta and verify the soup label.
Reheat leftovers with a splash of milk or broth to refresh the creamy sauce.

Storage

Store leftover Monterey Chicken Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little milk or broth to restore creaminess. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

A bowl filled with spaghetti noodles mixed with small pieces of cooked chicken, chopped tomatoes, and fresh green herbs scattered on top. The pasta is light yellow with a glossy texture from the sauce, and the chicken pieces are white with a slightly browned crust. The tomatoes add small bursts of red color, while the herbs are bright green and look fresh. The food is served in a white bowl placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute Monterey Jack and cheddar with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for different flavors and textures.

Is it necessary to bake the pasta after mixing everything?

No, baking is optional. You can simply serve the pasta right after tossing it with the sauce and cheeses. Baking adds a melty, bubbly top and a slightly crispy edge that many enjoy.