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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti dish served with vegetables

Cozy Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

A comforting dish combining tender chicken and creamy cheese sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 460
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 chicken breasts) Shredded rotisserie chicken makes this dish even quicker to prepare.
  • 8 oz spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice) You can use your favorite pasta shape, such as penne or fusilli.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil High-quality olive oil enhances the flavor of sautéed vegetables.
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped Skip for picky eaters.
  • 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz) This is the base of your creamy sauce.
  • 1 cup sour cream Feel free to add more for creaminess.
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded Can substitute with mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.
  • 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)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms; sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and slightly browned.
  3. Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk. Cook for 2-3 minutes until smooth and warmed through.
  4. Mix in the cooked, shredded chicken and 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese into the skillet. Allow to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the chicken is heated.
  5. Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, ensuring it's well coated with the creamy sauce.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and top with the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm to enjoy the comforting flavors.

Notes

Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. For a more depth, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the sauce. This dish can be made up to a day in advance, storing it in the fridge before the baking step. Ensure your pasta is cooked just al dente, as it will continue to cook when baked.