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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Bake

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Bake
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Easy Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Bake is a cozy, hearty, and family-friendly casserole combining tender chicken, spaghetti noodles, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Ready in under an hour, this one-dish meal offers comforting flavors with a subtle kick from diced tomatoes with green chilies. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a versatile and satisfying dish that can be customized for various dietary preferences and tastes.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Pasta

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
  • 8 ounces spaghetti noodles

Dairy & Cheese

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies (canned)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings & Oils

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or cooking oil of choice)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Pasta: Cook spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente. While pasta cooks, dice chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and sauté in a skillet with olive oil, seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika until golden and cooked through.
  2. Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, add diced onions and minced garlic; cook until softened and fragrant. Lower the heat and stir in softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy. Fold in diced tomatoes with green chilies, blending everything into a lush sauce.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Drain the cooked spaghetti and combine it with sautéed chicken and the creamy sauce in a large mixing bowl, ensuring even coating.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and golden.
  5. Let it Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes to set. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh green onions or cilantro, and accompanied by your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • Avoid overcooking the spaghetti to keep it firm and prevent mushiness after baking.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth sauce without lumps.
  • Resting the bake after cooking improves texture and makes serving easier.
  • Try different cheese blends like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for flavor variations.
  • Fresh garlic and onions enhance aroma and depth of flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Bake, cheesy chicken casserole, easy family dinner, comfort food, baked pasta, creamy chicken bake

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/monterey-chicken-spaghetti-bake/