If you’re looking for a delightful dinner that combines creamy textures, cheesy goodness, and a bit of zest, this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is absolutely the way to go. It’s comforting yet exciting, with tender chicken, sharp Monterey Jack cheese, and just the right hint of smoky paprika and green chiles to keep your taste buds happy. Whether you’re cooking for the family or craving a homemade meal that feels like a warm hug, this dish checks all those boxes and then some.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating layers of flavor, from tender chicken to creamy soups and melty cheese, balancing texture and taste perfectly.
- 12 oz spaghetti: The perfect pasta base that holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps soften the onions and garlic.
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced): Tender protein source that brings heartiness to the dish.
- 1 small onion (chopped): Adds gentle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a fragrant kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (drained): Introduces a mild, spicy tang and moisture.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup: Creates a dreamy, creamy sauce base.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds richness and a slight tang to balance the cheese.
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided): Melts all over with a smooth, buttery flavor and gooey texture.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a warm, smoky depth.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: For a subtle heat and spice.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness.
How to Make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Pasta
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless. Then, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until it’s just al dente — tender but still with a little bite — so it won’t turn mushy when baked later. Drain and set it aside, ready for the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet, warm up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it softens into a sweet, translucent base. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for just one more minute to release those aromatic flavors without burning.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce and Chicken
Next, add the drained diced tomatoes with green chiles, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the skillet. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, then stir to combine everything into a luscious, creamy mixture. Finally, fold in the cooked chicken, making sure every piece is coated in that flavorful sauce.
Step 4: Combine with Pasta and Transfer to Baking Dish
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss gently until every strand is evenly covered with the cheesy, creamy chicken goodness. Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese over the top for that irresistible golden crust.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Melted
Slide your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to turn beautifully golden. This final step gives your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe that perfect cozy finish that’s both visually inviting and packed with flavor.
How to Serve Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or green onions do more than just add color: they bring a light, herbaceous freshness that cuts through the richness of the dish. Sprinkling a bit on top right before serving makes the presentation pop and adds a hint of brightness with every bite.
Side Dishes
This dish is rich and filling, so keep sides light and complementary. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans offer a fresh balance without competing with the bold flavors of the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe in individual ramekins for a personal touch. You can also sprinkle extra cheese and broil the tops for a couple of minutes to get that bubbly, golden crust with a little extra crisp. Adding a few sautéed mushrooms or spinach inside the casserole before baking can introduce more texture and nutrients.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe has cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or dinners during busy days.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven for 15-20 minutes at 350°F to bring back that fresh-baked feel, or microwave individual servings until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk or covering with foil can help keep the pasta moist during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves prep time without sacrificing flavor, making your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe even easier to whip up.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer homemade or don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can use a simple mixture of cream and chicken broth thickened with a bit of flour or cornstarch to achieve a similar creamy texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can swap the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted peppers and use vegetable broth-based cream soup to keep it vegetarian-friendly while still creamy and satisfying.
Can I add more spice to this dish?
Definitely! If you love a bit of heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper along with the green chiles for an extra kick in your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe.
What cheese can I use if I don’t have Monterey Jack?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite melting cheeses all work well as substitutes. Monterey Jack is creamy and mild, so choose cheeses that melt nicely and complement the other flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is truly one of those dishes that brings everyone around the table with smiles and full bellies. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and hits all the comfort food notes with just the right twist. Next time you want a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal, give this recipe a try — trust me, it’ll become a favorite before you know it!
Print
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy pasta bake featuring tender cooked chicken, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and a luscious blend of sour cream and cream of chicken soup. This hearty American main course is perfect for a family dinner, delivering comforting flavors with a smoky paprika kick and gooey melted Monterey Jack cheese topping.
Ingredients
Spaghetti and Protein
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
Dairy and Sauces
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: Add the drained diced tomatoes with green chiles, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the skillet. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine the sauce.
- Add Cooked Chicken: Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken breast to the skillet and stir everything together until the chicken is fully coated with the sauce mixture.
- Toss in Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the cheesy, creamy sauce.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the spaghetti and chicken mixture to the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions before serving for a fresh flavor and appealing presentation.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking and shredding chicken.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach for extra vegetables and nutrition.
