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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

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This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting casserole dish loaded with tender spaghetti, juicy chicken, smoky bacon, and a creamy Monterey Jack cheese sauce. Topped with even more cheese and baked to golden perfection, it’s a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works great!)
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 cups milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti:

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

2. Make the Sauce:

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 1/2 cups of Monterey Jack cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Add the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.

3. Combine the Ingredients:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and cheese sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

5. Bake:

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for a golden, crispy top (optional).

6. Serve:

  1. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Add Veggies: Mix in cooked spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrients.
  • Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Adjust baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Find it online: https://recipe.ukfinda.com/monterey-chicken-spaghetti/