Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe – Cheesy, Flavorful & Family-Friendly!
Monterey chicken spaghetti combines the comfort of a creamy pasta bake with the zesty flavors of Monterey Jack cheese, juicy chicken, and a hint of spice. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd, with its cheesy goodness and southwestern twist that everyone will love. Loaded with peppers, spices, and topped with melty cheese, this dish brings an unforgettable taste that’s sure to make it a new favorite in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti (or any pasta you like)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green for color)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional garnish)
Preparation
- Cook the Pasta
Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes). Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Sauté Vegetables
In the same skillet, add diced bell pepper and onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. - Prepare the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, drained Rotel tomatoes, and sour cream. Stir well, then add 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese and 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese. Mix until fully combined. - Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, and drained spaghetti to the bowl with the sauce. Mix everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. - Assemble in Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. - Top with Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy, spicy Monterey chicken spaghetti!
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or 1 diced jalapeño for more heat.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Mix in fresh spinach or corn for extra flavor and texture.
- Different Cheese Options: Swap Monterey Jack for pepper jack for more spice, or use mozzarella for a milder option.
- Bacon Lovers: Top with crumbled bacon before baking for a smoky, savory flavor boost.
Cooking Note
If you prefer a creamier consistency, add 1/2 cup of milk or heavy cream to the sauce mixture before combining it with the pasta. This will create an extra-smooth, velvety sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Monterey chicken spaghetti with a side salad, garlic bread, or a slice of buttery, toasted baguette. For added flavor, sprinkle with a bit of fresh lime juice or avocado slices on top before serving.
Tips
- Pre-Cooked Chicken Option: To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked, shredded chicken.
- Customize Spice Level: Adjust the heat by choosing mild, medium, or hot Rotel tomatoes and green chilies.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding a few minutes to the cook time.
Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 490
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sodium: 870mg
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or any sturdy pasta will work well in this recipe. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup. - What if I don’t have Rotel tomatoes?
You can use a can of diced tomatoes and a small can of green chilies instead.
Conclusion
This Monterey chicken spaghetti recipe is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as delicious as it is simple. With its combination of creamy sauce, savory chicken, and melty cheese, this pasta bake is sure to become a family favorite. Make it tonight and see why Monterey chicken spaghetti is an unbeatable option for any meal!