Get ready to elevate your pasta game with Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, a creamy, cheesy casserole bursting with flavor. This dish combines tender shredded chicken, a velvety cheese sauce, and spaghetti, all baked to golden perfection. The Monterey Jack cheese adds a mild, creamy touch that pairs beautifully with smoky bacon and a pop of freshness from diced tomatoes.
Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prepping, this comforting recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into this irresistible pasta bake!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 12 oz spaghetti (cooked al dente and drained)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced, rotisserie works well)
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ½ cup bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the Topping:
- ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
- ½ cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Casserole Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, diced tomatoes with green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses over the top.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a golden, crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with crumbled bacon and fresh parsley for garnish. Serve warm.
Tips
- Chicken Options: Use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- Spaghetti Tip: Undercook the spaghetti slightly as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Customizable Cheese: Mix in Pepper Jack cheese for a spicy kick or mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave, or bake the entire dish at 350°F until heated through.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Vegetable Addition: Mix in cooked broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute the spaghetti with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- BBQ Chicken Spaghetti: Add ¼ cup BBQ sauce to the casserole mixture for a smoky twist.
Nutrition Details
Per Serving (Approximate, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 420
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 25g
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Penne, rotini, or fettuccine are great substitutes for spaghetti.
What’s the best way to cook the chicken?
Boil, grill, or roast chicken breasts for shredding, or use a store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Certainly! Replace the chicken with roasted vegetables or cooked chickpeas for a meatless version.
What sides go well with this dish?
Serve Monterey Chicken Spaghetti with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
