Description
Craving something hearty, cheesy, and absolutely comforting? This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is just the ticket! It’s a delicious twist on classic baked spaghetti, featuring tender chicken, creamy cheese, and bold southwestern flavors all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken Spaghetti:
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2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
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8 oz spaghetti noodles
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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1 small green bell pepper, diced
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1 small red bell pepper, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
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1 cup sour cream
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½ cup chicken broth
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1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp cumin
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
For Topping:
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½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
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¼ cup chopped green onions
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¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
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Crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs (optional for crunch)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
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Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Add diced onion, green and red bell peppers. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
6. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed veggies, shredded chicken, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth.
8. Add paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Cheese
9. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl.
10. Stir in 1½ cups of Monterey Jack cheese and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Mix until well coated.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
11. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
12. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
13. Pour the spaghetti mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
14. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Monterey Jack cheese on top.
15. If using, add crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Step 6: Bake and Garnish
16. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
17. Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
18. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro before serving.
Notes
Cook Pasta Al Dente – It continues to cook while baking, so don’t overboil.
Use Rotisserie Chicken – A great shortcut that adds extra flavor.
Drain Tomatoes Well – Prevents the dish from getting watery.
Shred Your Own Cheese – Melts better and tastes fresher than pre-shredded.
Add a Kick – For more heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American