Introduction
If you’re ready to twirl your fork around something truly special, then look no further than Monterey Chicken Spaghetti! This cheesy, savory dish is genuinely irresistible and will become a staple at your dinner table. With layers of flavors and a delightful creamy texture, it’s no wonder this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 8 ounces spaghetti, cooked
- 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Toss your shredded chicken with BBQ sauce and half of the crumbled bacon for that smoky goodness. Set aside.
Step 2: Make It Saucy
In a large bowl, mix your cooked spaghetti with diced tomatoes, sour cream, and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until everything’s a creamy, tangled delight.
Step 3: Combine Forces
Add your BBQ chicken mixture to the spaghetti mixture. Give it a good stir to ensure every bite sings with flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer everything to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top with remaining bacon and some extra cheese (because why not?). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh green onions right before serving for that perfect pop of color and flavor.
Dig in and enjoy the symphony of flavors – it’s comfort food at its best! 🍽️💖
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prep the Chicken
Toss your shredded chicken with BBQ sauce and half of the crumbled bacon for that smoky goodness. Set aside.
Make It Saucy
In a large bowl, mix your cooked spaghetti with diced tomatoes, sour cream, and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until everything’s a creamy, tangled delight.
Combine Forces
Add your BBQ chicken mixture to the spaghetti mixture. Give it a good stir to ensure every bite sings with flavor.
Bake to Perfection
Transfer everything to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top with remaining bacon and some extra cheese (because why not?). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh green onions right before serving for that perfect pop of color and flavor.
Notes
Shredded Chicken
You can use store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience, just shred it before using.
Baking Dish
Ensure your baking dish is greased to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
Extra Toppings
Feel free to add more toppings such as additional cheese, jalapeños, or even diced bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per serving, you’ll get approximately:
Calories: 450 kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 25g
Cook techniques
Shredding Chicken
Using leftover or rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred the chicken with two forks for even pieces.
Crisping Bacon
For perfectly crumbled bacon, cook it in a skillet until crispy. Let it drain on paper towels before crumbling.
Mixing Ingredients
For a well-blended dish, mix ingredients in a large bowl. Ensure that the sour cream and cheese are evenly distributed throughout the spaghetti.
Baking
Bake the pasta dish covered with foil for the first 15 minutes to trap moisture, then uncover for the last 5 minutes to achieve a golden cheese top.
Garnishing
Adding fresh herbs or green onions as a garnish enhances both flavor and presentation.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen cooked chicken. Just make sure to thaw it before shredding.
What can I substitute for Monterey Jack cheese?
You can substitute with cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be reheated for easy meals throughout the week.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, replace the chicken and bacon with cooked vegetables and use a plant-based BBQ sauce.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, perfect for gathering friends and family around the table.
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