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); 1/2 cup onion, chopped; 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped; 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 cup milk (or chicken broth for a lighter version); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Introduction

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting and creamy pasta dish that combines tender shredded chicken with sautéed vegetables and melty cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.

A white plate filled with spaghetti pasta layered with a mix of light golden shredded chicken pieces and small chunks of red tomatoes. The dish is topped with scattered fresh green parsley leaves, adding a touch of color. The pasta strands are slightly glossy, coated with a light sauce, and the chicken looks tender with a slight crisp at the edges. The background shows a white marbled texture, giving a clean and bright look to the image. 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: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms, then sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and slightly browned.
Step 3: Stir in cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
Step 4: Mix in the cooked chicken and 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the chicken is warmed through.
Step 5: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce and mix well to coat.
Step 6 (optional): Preheat 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.
Step 7: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier version, add jalapeños or red chili flakes to the sautéed vegetables.
Use canned chicken for a quicker preparation.
To make this dish gluten-free, choose gluten-free pasta and check labels on cream of chicken soup.
Reheat leftovers with a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce’s creaminess.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy and smooth.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with spaghetti pasta layered with small pieces of cooked chicken and sun-dried tomatoes, topped with finely chopped green herbs scattered across the dish. The pasta has a light shine showing it is well coated with olive oil or sauce, and the chicken pieces are white to light brown, mixed evenly throughout. The tomatoes add a rich red color, and the herbs give a fresh green contrast. The bowl sits on a white marbled textured 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, you can substitute Monterey Jack with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor. Cheddar can also be swapped for Colby or a sharper variety depending on your preference.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the point before baking, then refrigerate in the baking dish. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a little extra baking time if chilled.