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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti: Creamy, Cheesy Family Favorite

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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy baked pasta casserole made with tender shredded chicken, spaghetti, Monterey Jack cheese, and a rich homemade sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food for family dinners, meal prep, and potlucks.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baked

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Optional: diced green chiles, mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, bacon, or bell peppers

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
  3. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, then stir in the garlic.
  4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Slowly add the chicken broth and milk while whisking until smooth and slightly thickened.
  6. Reduce the heat and stir in the cream cheese until melted.
  7. Add the Monterey Jack cheese and cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth.
  8. Season with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  9. Fold in the shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti until evenly coated.
  10. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
  11. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until hot and bubbly. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Cook the pasta just until al dente.
  • Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.
  • Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
  • Add a splash of milk when reheating to keep the sauce creamy.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipeshots.com/easy-monterey-chicken-spaghetti/