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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti: The Ultimate Cheesy Casserole Bake

This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food that brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that will have your family asking for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this one-dish wonder combines the smoky flavor of barbecue sauce with the rich creaminess of Monterey Jack cheese for a meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. While the pasta cooks, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, diced onions, bell peppers, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and smooth.
  3. Add the cooked spaghetti and shredded chicken to the sauce mixture. Gently toss until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
  4. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses evenly over the top of the spaghetti mixture. If using breadcrumbs, mix them with the melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese for an extra crispy topping.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown. For an extra crispy top, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  6. Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Be sure to cook your spaghetti al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven. The dish can be assembled up to a day in advance and refrigerated, or frozen for up to 3 months.