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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a delicious blend of cheeses and seasonings.
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Equipment

  • Large pot
  • - Medium skillet
  • - Baking dish (9x13 inches)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • - Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • **For the Chicken:**
  • - 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • - 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • - 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • - 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • **For the Spaghetti:**
  • - 12 ounces spaghetti
  • - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • - 2 garlic cloves minced
  • - 2 cups chicken broth
  • - 1 cup heavy cream
  • - 1/2 cup sour cream
  • - 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • **For Topping:**
  • - 1/2 cup crispy fried onions or panko breadcrumbs optional
  • - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or green onions

Instructions
 

  • **Cook the Spaghetti:**
  • - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • **Prepare the Chicken:**
  • - Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and cook for 2–3 minutes to enhance the flavor. Set aside.
  • **Make the Sauce:**
  • - In the same pot used for the spaghetti, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • - Whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and sour cream. Cook until the mixture is slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
  • - Stir in the Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  • **Combine:**
  • - Add the cooked spaghetti and seasoned chicken to the sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
  • **Assemble and Bake:**
  • - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • - Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with crispy fried onions or panko breadcrumbs, if desired.
  • - Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
  • **Serve:**
  • - Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving. Enjoy warm!