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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Bake

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Bake
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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Bake is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy casserole that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a rich cheese sauce with fresh flavors. Quick to prepare and bake, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, family meals, or meal prep. It’s versatile, satisfying, and loved by all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Pasta

  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breasts
  • 8 ounces spaghetti, cooked al dente

Sauce and Cheese

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup diced green chilies
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided

Optional Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Pasta: Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. Cook the chicken breasts by poaching or baking until fully cooked, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced green chilies, minced garlic, chopped onions, salt, and pepper. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until well mixed.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Gently fold the cooked spaghetti and shredded chicken into the creamy sauce mixture. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top.
  4. Bake Until Bubbling: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and lightly browned. Let it cool a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Notes

  • Use freshly cooked chicken for the best flavor and texture.
  • Slightly undercook the spaghetti to prevent mushiness after baking.
  • Combine sharp cheddar with mild Monterey Jack cheese for a balanced melt and flavor.
  • Taste and adjust salt and pepper before baking.
  • Allow casserole to rest after baking for easier slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, cheesy casserole, creamy chicken bake, weeknight dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/monterey-chicken-spaghetti-bake/