Name: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup milk; 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Description

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful pasta bake loaded with tender chicken, smoky bacon, and Monterey Jack cheese. A comforting casserole perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked spaghetti, chicken, bacon (reserve some for topping), sautéed onions and garlic, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese and reserved bacon.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving if desired.

Notes

You can substitute Monterey Jack with a blend of cheddar and mozzarella if desired.
For a spicier version, add chopped green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Leftovers reheat well and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 520
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: monterey chicken spaghetti, cheesy chicken pasta, chicken casserole, baked spaghetti, comfort food