Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spaghetti and Sauce

  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup diced canned green chiles (optional, for added flavor)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

  • 1/2 cup crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the shredded or diced chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cook for 2-3 minutes to heat through and infuse the flavors. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Cook the Spaghetti

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

  1. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the onions and green bell peppers, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  4. Gradually stir in the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses, allowing them to melt completely.
  5. Add the diced green chiles (if using) and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine the Ingredients

  1. Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
  2. Gently fold in the seasoned chicken and mix well.

5. Bake (Optional)

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Top with crumbled bacon and shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
  4. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve

  1. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
  2. Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight!

Tips for Success

  • Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or grill chicken breasts for added flavor.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out.

Description

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti combines tender pasta with a creamy, cheesy sauce packed with sautéed vegetables, smoky chicken, and crispy bacon. Every bite delivers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing comfort dish.

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