Description: A comforting and flavorful casserole featuring spaghetti, shredded chicken, a creamy sauce infused with Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, and plenty of melted Monterey Jack cheese. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to use leftover cooked chicken. This creamy Monterey Jack chicken spaghetti bake is the perfect weeknight dinner when you need something satisfying and easy to prepare. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of chicken spaghetti with the cheesy goodness of Monterey Jack cheese.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), drained
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and the cheese melts beautifully. Preparing the oven ahead of time streamlines the cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Ensure the spaghetti is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking. Drain the spaghetti thoroughly and set aside.
Step 3: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Sautéing the onion first releases its natural sweetness and flavors, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
Step 4: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 more minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The garlic adds a pungent and savory note to the dish.
Step 5: Stir in the cream of chicken soup, drained Rotel, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix well to combine, ensuring there are no lumps. The cream of chicken soup provides a creamy and comforting base for the sauce, while the Rotel adds a touch of heat and acidity. Sour cream contributes to the creamy texture and adds a slight tanginess. Chicken broth helps to thin out the sauce to the perfect consistency.
Step 6: Add the shredded chicken, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir to heat through, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce. The smoked paprika adds a smoky depth of flavor to the dish, complementing the chicken and cheese. Seasoning with salt and pepper enhances the overall flavor profile.
Step 7: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the chicken sauce and mix until the pasta is evenly coated. Make sure every strand of spaghetti is covered in the luscious sauce.
Step 8: Stir in 1½ cups of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. This cheese melts beautifully and adds a mild, buttery flavor to the casserole.
Step 9: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Grease the dish to prevent the casserole from sticking to the bottom.
Step 10: Top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. This extra layer of cheese will create a golden brown and bubbly crust on top of the casserole.
Step 11: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. Keep an eye on the casserole to prevent the cheese from burning.
Step 12: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. The fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Why you will love this recipe
This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti recipe is a delightful dish because of its comforting flavors, ease of preparation, and crowd-pleasing nature. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover cooked chicken, making it both economical and practical. The combination of creamy sauce, tender spaghetti, shredded chicken, and melted Monterey Jack cheese creates a symphony of textures and tastes that is simply irresistible. It is quick, customizable, and family-friendly.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main course.
- Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Offer crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Tips:
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Adjust the amount of Rotel to your desired level of spiciness.
- Substitute other types of cheese, such as cheddar or Colby Jack.
- Add vegetables, such as chopped bell peppers or mushrooms, to the sauce.
- Make ahead of time and bake when ready to serve.
- Freeze leftovers for future meals.
- For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of chicken broth.
- If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt.
- To prevent the spaghetti from sticking together, toss it with a little olive oil after draining.
- If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, cover the baking dish with foil.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 478 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 750mg
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Conclusion
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting, easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a potluck gathering. With its creamy sauce, tender spaghetti, and melted Monterey Jack cheese, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. It is customizable, quick, and family-friendly. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Monterey Jack?
A: Absolutely! While Monterey Jack provides a mild, buttery flavor, you can easily substitute it with other cheeses like cheddar, Colby Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, this casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Q3: Is it possible to freeze this dish for later?
A: Yes, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti freezes well. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q4: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Definitely! Adding vegetables is a great way to customize this dish and make it even more nutritious. Consider adding chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce.
Q5: Can I make this recipe spicier?
A: Certainly! To add some heat to your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, use a spicier variety of Rotel or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also serve with a side of hot sauce for those who like it extra spicy.
