Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

This Monterey chicken spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, creamy, and packed with tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and Monterey Jack cheese. It’s a quick and easy dinner that feels indulgent but is simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. With its rich, satisfying flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Perfect for weeknights with just 40 minutes from start to finish.

Rich and comforting: Creamy sauce, gooey cheese, and hearty chicken make this a meal to remember.

Customizable: Use your favorite vegetables, switch up the pasta, or adjust the cheeses to your liking.

Great for leftovers: This reheats beautifully, making it an excellent meal prep option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 chicken breasts)

8 oz spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)

1/2 cup onion, chopped

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup

1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped

1 cup sour cream

1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

1/2 cup mushrooms, slicer

1 cup Monterey Jack 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

Cook the Pasta:

Boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and slightly browned.

Make the Creamy Sauce:

Add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes until smooth and heated through.

Add the Chicken and Cheese:

Mix in the cooked chicken and 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and the chicken is warm.

Combine with Pasta:

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Stir until the pasta is well-coated.

Bake (Optional for Extra Creaminess):

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.

Serve:

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories per serving: 450 kcal

Variations

Protein swap: Use rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even cooked ground beef.

Vegetarian: Replace chicken with extra vegetables like zucchini or broccoli, and use cream of mushroom soup.

Pasta options: Try penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta.

Cheese variations: Experiment with Colby Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.

Lighter version: Use reduced-fat sour cream, low-fat cheese, and chicken broth instead of milk.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Warm in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce if needed.

Related Recipes:

• Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
• Chicken Enchilada Soup

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

I recommend adding diced jalapeños or red chili flakes to the sautéed vegetables or using pepper jack cheese.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the pasta and sauce in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

What can I serve with Monterey chicken spaghetti?

I like serving it with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad to balance the richness.

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely, canned chicken works well for a quick and convenient option.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and check that the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Monterey chicken spaghetti is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the comfort of pasta. It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for satisfying cravings or serving at family dinners. Whether you stick to the recipe or customize it to your taste, this meal is sure to be a hit!

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