Mоnterey Chicken Spaghetti is a tasty dish that mіxes pаsta , chicken , veggies and creamy cheese into one bowl . The chicken is cooked just right , and the cheese melts all over the spaghetti. Folks love this meal cause it fills you up and is real easy to make .
Lots of people like it because you can change it up with different veggies or spices , and it works with many diets . Home cooks dig it since it tastes good , takes little time and you can cook for a big group without spending much money . You can make it for a weeknight dinner , a potluck or just a chill get together .
In this article , we’re gonna look at where this dish came from and what you need to cook it step by step . Even if you’re new to cooking , you’ll see how simple it is to get this on your table at home .
What is Monterey Chicken Spaghetti?
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a pаsta meal that blends tender chicken , melty cheese and spaghetti all in one creamy sаuce , bringing a bit of American and Italian cooking together . The sauce is made with Monterey Jack cheese which has a mild tang and makes it super smooth . They often add veggies too , so you get color and extra taste .
This dish stands out from other chicken pastas because it uses a cheese sauce instead of tomato sauce , so it’s more creamy and rich . The Monterey Jack cheese gives it a special flavor that goes great with the chicken and a little crunch from the veggies . It’s perfect if you want comfort food that feels both new and familiar .
You can find this meal at potlucks and family meals all over the U S . It’s easy to make your own version too , which is why people pass this recipe down from moms and dads to kids . No matter the event , this dish always warms you up and is worth sharing .
Ingredients Needed for Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
To make this tasty dish , you’ll need some simple ingredients that work great together .
- Chicken Breasts : Boneless skinless chicken breasts that give juice and protein to the meal .
- Spaghetti : Regular spaghetti noodles that soak up all the sauce .
- Monterey Jack Cheese : That gooey cheese that melts into the sauce and makes it creamy .
- Bell Peppers : Diced peppers to add color and a sweet crunch .
- Onion : Diced onion to give a deep taste at the bottom .
- Garlic : Minced garlic that brings that nice sharp smell .
- Spices & Broth : A bit of chicken broth , Italian seasoning , salt and pepper to boost the flavors .
Each ingredient plays a part in making this dish awesome . Use good quality chicken and cheese plus fresh veggies if you can .
Detailed Recipe for Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Preparation Time
Total time : 45 minutes (about)
Prep time : 15 minutes
Cook time : 30 minutes
Ingredients
- Protein :
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Pasta :
- 8 ounces of spaghetti
- Veggies :
- 1 diced bell pepper (any color)
- 1 medium diced onion
- 2 cloves of minced garlic
- Dairy :
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- Broth & Spices :
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper , to taste
- Oil : Olive oil for cooking
Directions
- Cook the spaghetti :
Fill a big pot with water and salt , bring to boil then add spaghetti . Cook like the box says until it’s al dente . Drain and set it aside .
- Cook the chicken :
Sprinkle salt and pepper on chicken . Heat olive oil in a skillet on medium-high . Add the chicken and cook about 6 to 7 minutes each side until golden and cooked through . Take it out and let rest before slicing .
- Sauté veggies :
In the same pan add more oil if you need . Throw in the onion and peppers , stir for 3 to 4 minutes until soft . Then add garlic and cook a quick minute until it smells good .
- Mix it all :
Cut the chicken into pieces . In a big bowl mix the spaghetti , cooked veggies , and chicken .
- Add sauce and cheese :
Pour in chicken broth , sour cream and cheese . Stir until it’s all mixed . Taste and add salt , pepper or Italian seasoning if you want .
- Bake :
Heat oven to 350°F (175°C) . Put the mix in a greased dish and spread it out . Top with extra cheese if you like . Bake 20 to 25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden .
- Serve :
Let it cool a bit before you dig in . Add fresh herbs on top if you have them . Goes great with salad or garlic bread .
Cooking Tips and Advice
You can switch up the veggies — mushrooms , spinach or zucchini work well . If you like spice , add red pepper flakes or jalapeños when you cook the veg . For meal prep just portion before baking and keep in containers in the fridge for up to 3 days .
To reheat , microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warm . Have fun making it your own !
Nutritional Information
One serving has around 450 to 500 calories . You get protein from chicken , carbs from pasta and fats from cheese . Veggies add fiber and vitamins .
If you want it lighter , try whole grain or gluten-free pasta , low-fat cheese , or extra veggies . Check nutrition info if you have special diet needs .
Variations of Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
If you want to change it up , try these :
- Different pasta : Use penne , fusilli or zucchini noodles for something new .
- No meat : Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken . Season it like the chicken for flavor .
- Extra heat : Add jalapeños , green chiles or a dash of hot sauce .
Best Side Dishes to Pair
This casserole goes with a green salad and vinaigrette , garlic knots or crusty bread to soak up the sauce . If you drink wine , a crisp white like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Pinot Noir work well .
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different cheese ?
Sure , use mozzarella or pepper jack if you want a bit of spice .
2. What pasta works best ?
Any shape you like — penne , fusilli or gluten-free versions all taste great .
3. How to make it healthier ?
Lean chicken , whole grain pasta , and more veggies with less cheese lowers calories .
4. Can I freeze this ?
Yes , freeze before or after baking in an airtight container . Thaw in fridge before heating .
5. How long will leftovers last ?
Keep leftovers in the fridge 3 days max in a sealed container .
Conclusion
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a cozy and simple meal you’ll wanna make again and again . Gather your ingredients and give it a try , you might just find your new favorite .
Additional Resources
For more recipes and tips , check out our site or follow us on social media to share your cooking wins .
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 skillet
- 1 colander
- 1 mixing spoon
- 1 9x13-inch baking dish
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro optional
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions in a large pot with salted water. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped onion, red, and green bell peppers. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the minced garlic, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir well to coat the spaghetti evenly.
- Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro (if using) before serving hot.
