Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with pasta, a creamy sauce, and flavorful seasonings. Here’s a simple recipe to make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti:
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- 8 oz spaghetti (or pasta of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or milk for a creamier texture)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon (optional, crumbled)
- 1/4 cup green onions (chopped, optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from heat, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese. Stir well to mix everything together. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked spaghetti and sliced chicken into the bowl with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are coated evenly.
- Bake (Optional): Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheeses. If you like, sprinkle crumbled bacon on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle with chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can add some diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the sauce mixture.
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for the chicken breasts to save time.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad and garlic bread.
Let me know if you’d like any modifications or variations to the recipe!
