If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, look no further than Monterey Chicken Spaghetti. This easy-to-make casserole combines tender chicken, pasta, and loads of melted cheese into one mouthwatering dish that's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep.
With the rich flavors of Monterey Jack cheese, juicy chicken, and a creamy sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home!
Why You'll Love Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
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๐ง Cheesy goodness from Monterey Jack and cheddar
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๐ Protein-packed with juicy shredded chicken
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๐ Hearty and filling meal the whole family will enjoy
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⏱️ Quick and easy prep—great for busy weeknights
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๐ฅก Perfect leftovers that reheat beautifully
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Spaghetti:
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12 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
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1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
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1 cup sour cream
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1 ½ cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
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1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon paprika
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Salt and black pepper to taste
For Topping:
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½ cup Monterey Jack cheese
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½ cup cheddar cheese
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Fresh chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
How to Make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Chicken
Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside. Meanwhile, shred your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, drained Rotel tomatoes, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Add the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, and cheddar cheese into the sauce. Gently toss everything together until the spaghetti is well coated and the cheese is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the chicken spaghetti mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is hot and bubbly. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Tips for the Best Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
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๐ Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep and extra flavor.
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๐ง Shred your own cheese—pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that don’t melt as smoothly.
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๐ถ️ Add spice by using spicy Rotel or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
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๐ฅฆ Mix in veggies like sautรฉed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
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๐ฅ Double the recipe and freeze one for a future easy meal!
Variations to Try
Make it Tex-Mex: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning to give it a Southwestern twist.
Add Bacon: Crumbled cooked bacon sprinkled on top makes it even more indulgent.
Swap the Pasta: Use penne, rotini, or even egg noodles if you don't have spaghetti.
Lighten It Up: Use light sour cream and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze the fully assembled (but unbaked) casserole, tightly covered, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven until heated through.
What to Serve with Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
This cheesy, creamy pasta dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with lighter sides like:
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A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
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Steamed or roasted broccoli
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Garlic bread or Texas toast
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Sautรฉed green beans
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Fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use other cheeses?
Yes! Pepper Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend would all taste fantastic.
Is it spicy?
It has a little kick from the Rotel tomatoes, but you can control the heat by choosing mild, original, or hot Rotel depending on your preference.
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Definitely! This recipe is a great way to use up leftover turkey, especially around the holidays.
Final Thoughts: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is Comfort Food at Its Best
When you need a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make, flavor-packed meal, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti checks all the boxes. Creamy, cheesy, and absolutely loaded with satisfying ingredients, it’s the kind of recipe that’ll have everyone asking for seconds—and for the recipe!
Save it, print it, and share it—you’ll want this delicious dish in your permanent meal rotation. ❤️๐ด
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