If you're looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that won't break the calorie bank, look no further than Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake! With just 430 calories per serving, this dish is the perfect way to indulge in all the cheesy, pasta-y goodness you crave without any of the guilt.

In addition to being low in calories, Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake is also packed with protein and healthy vegetables like bell peppers and onions, making it a nutritious and balanced meal choice.

In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of making this tasty dish, from the ingredients you'll need to the best serving suggestions. So let's get cooking!

What is Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake?

Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake is a delicious and easy-to-make casserole dish that combines tender chicken breast, flavorful seasonings, and a creamy blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses with hearty whole wheat pasta. Bell peppers and onions add a bright pop of color and a healthy boost of nutrients to this dish, while panko breadcrumbs provide a crispy golden topping. Whether you need a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner or a show-stopping potluck dish, Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake is always a crowd-pleaser.

What Ingredients are used in Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake?

To make Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 8 oz whole wheat penne pasta
• 2 boneless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1 cup reduced-fat shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Note: You can also add or substitute other vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or adjust the spice level to your liking.

How to Make Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake?

Ready to get cooking? Here's how to make Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large pan over medium heat, sauté the bell pepper, onion, and garlic in olive oil until they are tender and fragrant.
4. Add the cooked chicken and diced tomatoes to the pan, and stir to combine.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the chicken and vegetable mixture, then pour the Greek yogurt sauce over everything and stir to combine.
7. Add the shredded cheeses to the pan and stir until everything is evenly coated.
8. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Information of Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake

Here's a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake (based on the ingredients listed above):

• calories: 430
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 7g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 67mg
• Sodium: 602mg

Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on exact ingredient brands and substitutions.

Serving Size of Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake

This recipe makes 6 servings of Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake, so each serving is about 1 1/2 cups. You can easily adjust the recipe to fit your family's needs by halving or doubling the ingredient amounts as necessary.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers of Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. To reheat, you can either microwave individual servings or bake the whole pan in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Note: It's best to add a little extra Greek yogurt or chicken broth to the leftovers before reheating to ensure they stay moist and creamy.

Possible Variations of Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake

While this recipe is already delicious as-is, there are plenty of ways to mix things up and make it your own! Here are a few possible variations to try:

• Swap out the whole wheat pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety.
• Add some spicy heat with a few diced jalapeño peppers.
• Replace the chicken with shredded pork or beef for a heartier twist.
• Make it vegetarian by substituting extra veggies or tofu for the chicken.

Tips for Making Perfect Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake

Follow these helpful tips to ensure that your Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake turns out perfectly every time:

• Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option that also adds extra fiber to the dish.
• Precook your chicken and shred it before adding it to the pan to save time and ensure even cooking.
• Make sure to drain the canned tomatoes well to avoid excess liquid in the dish.
• For a crispier topping, you can use seasoned breadcrumbs or add a little parmesan cheese to the panko mixture.

Suggested Side Dishes for Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake

Looking for some tasty sides to serve alongside your Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake? Here are a few ideas:

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
• Garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up all the delicious sauce.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or asparagus.
• A side of salsa or fresh chopped tomatoes for added flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions for Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake

When it comes to serving your Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake, there are a few different approaches you can take. Here are some suggestions to get you started:

• Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
• Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve with a wedge of lemon or lime to add a bright citrus note.
• Top with some diced avocado or guacamole for a tasty southwestern twist.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake is sure to be a hit with your family and friends!