Description
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting American baked casserole featuring tender shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy cheesy sauce with Monterey Jack cheese, all combined with perfectly cooked spaghetti and baked until hot and bubbly. This easy, family-friendly dish offers a delicious blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or cozy meal any day.
Ingredients
Scale
Spaghetti and Chicken
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Sauces and Dairy
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Spaghetti: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, drained diced tomatoes with green chiles, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the spaghetti mixture into it, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
- Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a spicier version.
- This dish freezes well – assemble the casserole and freeze before baking for an easy make-ahead meal.
