Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
If you’re searching for a family-friendly weeknight dinner that never fails to impress, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is your answer. This bubbly, cheesy casserole is packed with tender chicken, colorful veggies, creamy sauce, and irresistibly gooey Monterey Jack cheese—each bite is pure comfort. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or treating guests to a cozy dinner, this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is destined to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is refreshingly simple, yet every component is thoughtfully chosen to create a perfect harmony of textures, flavors, and color. Let’s break down why each one matters, so you can see how they all work together!
- Spaghetti (12 oz): Classic strands for soaking up all that creamy, flavorful goodness—don’t overcook so it holds up in the bake!
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb, cooked and shredded): Tender, juicy, and perfect for soaking up all the saucy flavors—rotisserie chicken works in a pinch!
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): For sautéing veggies, adding depth and richness without overpowering.
- Diced onion (1/2 cup): A flavor base that adds both sweetness and a savory edge to the casserole.
- Diced green bell pepper (1/2 cup): A punch of color and crunch that balances the creamy sauce.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Bright, aromatic notes that make everything taste homemade.
- Diced tomatoes with green chiles (1 can, 10 oz, drained): Just the right amount of tang and a gentle kick—don’t skip these!
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): The luscious, creamy foundation that brings everything together.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tanginess and luxurious richness to the sauce.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (1 1/2 cups, divided): The star cheese—melts beautifully and gives that oozy, bubbly finish.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 tsp): Subtle smokiness that amplifies flavor and warmth.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Brings all the flavors into sharp focus.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): For just the right amount of gentle heat.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional): A fresh, herby pop to brighten things up at the very end.
How to Make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti according to package directions, just until al dente. You want it to have a little bite since it will continue cooking in the oven—no one likes mushy noodles! Drain well and set aside while you prep the rest of your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti magic.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper, and sauté until they’ve softened and begun to smell sweet and inviting—give it about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant but not browned. This quick step is what builds those delicious layers of flavor in Monterey Chicken Spaghetti.
Step 3: Mix Everything Together
Grab your biggest bowl (trust me, you’ll need it!) and combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, sautéed veggies, drained diced tomatoes with green chiles, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of the Monterey Jack cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use tongs or two big spoons to mix it all up until each noodle is coated, and everything looks perfectly combined. This is that quintessential Monterey Chicken Spaghetti moment—creamy, cheesy, comforting, and fragrant.
Step 4: Assemble & Bake
Spoon your irresistible mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese right over the top for that signature golden, melty finish. Pop the casserole into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until it’s hot and bubbly and the aroma is simply out of this world.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti settle for a few minutes to make serving easier. If you love a little pop of color and freshness, shower the top with chopped parsley before bringing it to the table. Now all that’s left is to dig in and savor the creamy, cheesy, flavorful results of your work!
How to Serve Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Garnishes
Garnishing is your chance to add that final flare! Try a handful of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for vibrant color. Cracked black pepper or a dusting of smoked paprika amps up both look and taste. For heat-lovers, sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce sprinkled right before serving give your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti a spicy kick that’s sure to satisfy.
Side Dishes
This comforting casserole is hearty enough to shine solo, but a crisp side salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the creamy texture perfectly. Warm garlic bread or lightly steamed green beans pair beautifully without competing for attention. Trust me—your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti will be the star, but a thoughtful side makes it a meal to remember.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to fancy things up a bit? Scoop generous portions into individual ramekins for personal gratins (hello, dinner party!). Or, plate it family-style topped with vibrant, fresh herbs and a lemon wedge for a bright contrast. For a kid-friendly spin, mix in a sprinkle of crushed crackers or crispy fried onions for playful crunch—Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is as versatile as your imagination.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have leftovers (lucky you!), simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. Monterey Chicken Spaghetti keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a dream for meal-preppers and lunch-packers alike.
Freezing
This is the kind of casserole that loves your freezer! You can assemble Monterey Chicken Spaghetti in advance (skip the final cheese topping), cover well, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, sprinkle with the reserved cheese, and bake as usual for a freshly-made feel.
Reheating
For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep things creamy. For larger amounts, cover the casserole with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through—about 20 minutes. Add fresh herbs or an extra sprinkle of cheese to revive its straight-from-the-oven vibe!
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic timesaver, and it blends seamlessly into Monterey Chicken Spaghetti. Just shred about 3–4 cups and fold it in as you would regular chicken breast.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Yes! Spice things up by adding chopped jalapeños, a splash of your favorite hot sauce, or even a pinch of cayenne into the casserole mix. The canned tomatoes with green chiles already add a gentle heat, but you can crank it up to suit your preference.
Can I use a different type Main Course
While Monterey Jack gives the best melty texture and creamy finish, feel free to experiment. Cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella can work in a pinch. A blend of cheeses also adds complexity and that extra-special gooey factor to your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti.
Will gluten-free pasta work in this dish?
Definitely! Just cook your gluten-free spaghetti to al dente and proceed with the recipe. Keep in mind gluten-free pasta can absorb sauce differently, so check for moisture before baking and add a splash of milk if things look too dry.
Can I make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti ahead and bake later?
Yes! Assemble the entire casserole (hold off on the final cheese topping), then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, sprinkle the cheese on top and bake as directed—allowing a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s cold from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
There’s something irresistible about bringing a bubbling, golden pan of Monterey Chicken Spaghetti to the table. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing classic that invites plenty of smiles and seconds. Give it a try for your next family night or potluck—your new favorite comfort food is just one casserole away!
Print
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and cheesy baked spaghetti casserole loaded with tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese. This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a delicious and easy-to-make family favorite perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Spaghetti:
- 12 oz spaghetti
Chicken Mixture:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 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
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Garnish:
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onion and bell pepper until softened. Add garlic and cook briefly.
- Combine ingredients: In a bowl, mix cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, diced tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bake: Transfer mixture to a baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicier dish.
- This casserole freezes well; assemble and freeze before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 casserole
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
