Monterey Chicken SpaghettiCheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti: Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Introduction

If you’re looking for a comforting, cheesy, and easy-to-make casserole, this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is the answer! Combining tender chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. With its bold flavors and hearty texture, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 8 oz spaghetti, broken into pieces
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional)

Tips for Success

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut.
  • For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • Customize with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

  1. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Add the cooked spaghetti and toss until well coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  2. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
  2. Enjoy warm and savor the cheesy goodness!

Description

This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a potluck, this casserole is a must-try!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx.)

  • Calories: 400
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Calcium: 25% of the Daily Value (DV)
  • Iron: 10% of the DV

(Values are approximate and depend on the specific ingredients used.)

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients:

  • Chicken: A lean source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc.
  • Cheese: Adds calcium and a rich, savory flavor.
  • Spaghetti: Provides carbohydrates for energy.
  • Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

This recipe allows you to indulge in a comforting, cheesy casserole while incorporating nutritious ingredients like lean chicken and whole-grain pasta. By balancing indulgence with wholesome choices, you can enjoy this dish as part of a healthy, satisfying meal.

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