Get ready for a delicious, comforting meal that comes together quickly! This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a true family favorite, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and satisfying. It combines tender pasta, savory chicken, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. This easy casserole delivers fantastic flavor with minimal effort.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
This recipe is designed to make your life easier and your taste buds happier. Here’s why you’ll want to add this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti to your dinner rotation:
- Effortless Prep: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you will have dinner ready in no time.
- Kid-Friendly: Its cheesy goodness and mild flavors make it a hit even with the pickiest eaters.
- Fantastic Make-Ahead Meal: Prepare it in advance and bake later, or freeze portions for convenient future dinners.
- Rich & Satisfying: Every bite offers a creamy, cheesy texture that’s truly comforting.
- Crispy Topping: Golden French fried onions add an irresistible crunch to this savory casserole.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delectable Monterey Chicken Spaghetti:
- 12-oz dried spaghetti
- 4 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 1 (16-oz) container sour cream
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 (10-oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (6-oz) can French’s French Fried Onions, divided
Notes & Substitutions
Enhance your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti with these helpful tips and easy swaps:
- Chicken: Make this casserole truly quick by using a store-bought rotisserie chicken. You can also shred any leftover cooked chicken breasts or thighs you have on hand.
- Soup: Opt for unsalted cream of chicken soup to better control the overall sodium level in your dish.
The CDC recommends that adults consume less than 2,300 mg of sodium daily for overall health. Learn more about recommended daily sodium intake.
If you only have regular, adjust any added salt accordingly.
- Cheese: While Monterey Jack is classic, feel free to use Colby Jack for a milder flavor or Pepper Jack if you enjoy a little spicy kick. A sharp cheddar also works well.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach makes a great alternative; simply sauté about 6 cups until wilted, then squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the mix.
- Liquid: If your mixture seems too thick, a splash of milk or chicken broth can thin it out. Add it incrementally until you reach the desired consistency.
- Flavor Boosts: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a can of drained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. A pinch of smoked paprika or Italian seasoning also elevates the taste.
Equipment
You won’t need many specialized tools for this easy casserole. Here is the essential kitchen equipment you will need:
- Large pot for cooking spaghetti
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- 9×13 inch baking dish
How To Make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Follow these straightforward steps to assemble your incredible Monterey Chicken Spaghetti casserole:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This ensures easy cleanup later.
- Step 2: Cook the dried spaghetti according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente consistency. Drain the pasta thoroughly after cooking and set it aside for a moment.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, both cans of cream of chicken soup, the sour cream, thoroughly drained frozen spinach, 1 cup of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and the minced garlic. Mix these ingredients well until everything is evenly incorporated and creamy. Also, stir in half of the French’s French Fried Onions now to build flavor.
- Step 4: Add the cooked and drained spaghetti to the large bowl with the chicken and sauce mixture. Gently fold the spaghetti into the creamy mixture until every strand is coated. Be careful not to break the pasta too much.
- Step 5: Pour the entire Monterey Chicken Spaghetti mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out with a spatula so that it forms an even layer.
- Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the pasta mixture. Then, evenly scatter the remaining half can of French’s French Fried Onions over the cheese layer.
- Step 7: Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 40 to 50 minutes. The dish is ready when it is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crispy. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Ensure your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti turns out perfectly every time with these expert tips.
- Prevent Dryness: If your casserole seems too thick or looks dry before baking, stir in an extra splash of chicken broth or milk. Start with a quarter cup and add more as needed.
- Crispy Topping: For the crispest French fried onions, add them during the last 15-20 minutes of baking. This prevents them from over-browning too early.
- Cooked Chicken Shortcuts: Always use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe to save time. Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken is a huge convenience, or cook chicken breasts in advance.
- Flavor Layering: Season your cooked chicken well before you shred or chop it. This adds another depth of flavor to the overall casserole.
- Spinach Prep: For frozen spinach, thaw it completely and then squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This step prevents your casserole from becoming watery.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
Elevate your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti experience with these tasty additions and serving ideas.
- Serving: This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. A side of warm garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks is also a fantastic accompaniment to soak up all the creamy sauce.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses to alter the flavor profile. Try a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a richer taste, or use smoked provolone for a unique twist.
- Vegetable Additions: Boost the veggie content by stirring in sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even a handful of frozen peas during the mixing step.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture. A dash of hot sauce can also give it a vibrant kick.
- Kid-Friendly: For very picky eaters, you can easily omit the spinach entirely from the recipe. They will still love the creamy, cheesy pasta and chicken combination.
Nutrition Information
Please note that the nutritional values provided are estimates. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients, portion sizes, and preparation methods. This information is intended for general guidance only.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Carbs | 30g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 700mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about making Monterey Chicken Spaghetti.
- Can I make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the casserole completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- How do I freeze this casserole? Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- Why is my chicken spaghetti dry? A dry casserole often results from overbaking or not having enough liquid in the sauce. Ensure you add enough broth or milk if the mixture seems thick.
- What kind of chicken is best for this recipe? Cooked chicken breast or thighs work perfectly. Rotisserie chicken is a top choice for its flavor and convenience, making this Monterey chicken spaghetti super easy.
- Where does the “Monterey” in the name come from? The “Monterey” refers to Monterey Jack cheese, which is a key ingredient providing its signature mild, creamy flavor to the dish.
Conclusion
This easy Monterey Chicken Spaghetti casserole is a fantastic solution for any busy weeknight, offering maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Its creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and satisfying pasta make it an instant family favorite that everyone will request again and again.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting, homemade meal that truly delivers on taste and simplicity.
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350ºF. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix chicken, soup, sour cream, spinach, 1 cup cheese, garlic, and half the onions.
- Add cooked spaghetti and fold gently until coated.
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with remaining cheese and French Fried Onions.
- Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add milk or chicken broth to thin sauce if needed.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted—sauté and drain before use.
- Add Rotel for extra flavor. Adjust onion topping time to control crispiness.
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