Monterey Chicken SpaghettiCheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole 🧀🍝

This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, spaghetti, and a rich sauce topped with melted cheese. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any occasion when you need a hearty and satisfying dish. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time!

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 8 oz Spaghetti, broken into thirds
  • 2 cups Cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup Sour cream
  • 1/2 cup Chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup Milk
  • 1 can (4 oz) Diced green chiles (optional, for a mild kick)
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1 1/2 cups Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
  • 1/2 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, milk, diced green chiles (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked spaghetti and shredded chicken to the sauce mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
  6. Add the Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are lightly golden.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Tips for Success

  1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
  2. Add Veggies: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
  3. Make It Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy twist.
  4. Prep Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving.
  5. Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: 450-500 kcal
  • Protein: 25-30g
  • Fat: 20-25g
  • Carbohydrates: 35-40g
  • Fiber: 2-3g
  • Sugar: 4-5g
  • Sodium: 800-1000mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

  • Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream, salsa, or sliced green onions for extra flavor.

Embracing Comfort Food

This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and pasta. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to customize and perfect for feeding a crowd. Enjoy! 🍴✨

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