If you’re craving a dish that brings together creamy comfort, savory chicken, and a delightful cheesy twist, you’re in luck! The Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is one of those heartwarming dishes that feels like a big cozy hug in a bowl. With tender chicken, luscious sour cream and soup, plus that irresistible crunch of French fried onions baked on top, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings where everyone wants a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things refreshingly simple with ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Each component plays a vital role in creating a texture and flavor harmony that makes this casserole so crave-worthy — from the spaghetti’s comforting bite to the creamy mixture that binds everything together.
- 12 oz dried spaghetti: The classic pasta base that soaks up all the creamy goodness perfectly.
- 4 cups chopped cooked chicken: Tender and protein-packed, forms the hearty heart of the casserole.
- 1 (16-oz) container sour cream: Adds richness and tangy creaminess that balances the flavors.
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: The secret to that silky, comforting sauce that brings everything together.
- 1 (10-oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained: Brings color, nutrition, and a subtle earthiness.
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided: Melts into a gooey, cheesy layer that’s utterly irresistible.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses a gentle savory depth that’s key for flavor complexity.
- 1 (6-oz) can French’s French Fried Onions, divided: Provides that golden, crispy contrast on top for the perfect finish.
How to Make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Pan
Begin by heating your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to make sure your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out beautifully after baking.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Cook your 12 ounces of dried spaghetti according to the package directions until it’s just al dente. This ensures that the pasta will hold its texture perfectly once baked. Then, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, and thawed, drained spinach. Stir everything together until you get a smooth, creamy mixture that promises so much flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Add the chopped cooked chicken and cooked spaghetti into your creamy mixture. Toss gently to make sure every strand of spaghetti and chunk of chicken is well coated in that dreamy sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into your prepared pan. Sprinkle both the Monterey Jack cheese and half of the French’s French Fried Onions evenly over the top. This layer ensures gooey cheese right beneath a crispy onion crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, just until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese has melted into a golden, tempting layer. In the last few minutes, sprinkle the remaining French fried onions on top and return to the oven to crisp up. This adds that signature crunch that makes this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe stand out.
How to Serve Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or a light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can add a fresh and inviting aroma. A little sprinkle of chopped green onions also looks gorgeous and adds a mild bite, making each serving even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a bright garden salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, cutting through the richness perfectly. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans also complement the dish, adding both nutrition and a satisfying textural contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve individual portions in cute ramekins topped with extra fried onions. You can also add layers with sliced tomatoes or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika to bring warmth and a pop of color that will wow your guests visually and palate-wise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your big meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully for 3 to 4 days, making it an easy and satisfying lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, this casserole freezes well. Simply assemble as usual and cover tightly with foil before freezing. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a little extra time if it is still chilled.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in the oven at 350ºF until heated through, usually about 20 minutes. If using a microwave, heat in shorter bursts, stirring occasionally to maintain that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach is a great substitute. Just sauté it lightly before adding to the casserole to remove excess moisture and ensure the right texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the cooked chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or roasted bell peppers and use a vegetarian cream of mushroom or vegetable soup instead of cream of chicken soup.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Monterey Jack is mild and melts beautifully, but feel free to experiment with cheddar, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
You want to see bubbling edges, melted cheese, and a golden crust on top from the fried onions. If it’s nicely browned and fragrant, it’s ready to come out!
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely. The Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe holds up well in the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for preparing meals ahead of time or for busy weeknights.
Final Thoughts
This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is such a gem—comforting, cheesy, and downright satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, it’s a recipe that brings everyone to the table with smiles and full bellies. Dive into this delicious casserole soon and enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!
Print
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and creamy baked pasta dish featuring tender chicken, spinach, melted Monterey Jack cheese, and crispy French fried onions for a delightful crunchy topping. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole combines simple ingredients into a hearty meal that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz dried spaghetti
- 4 cups chopped cooked chicken
Sauce and Mix-ins
- 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
Topping
- 1 (6-oz) can French’s French Fried Onions, divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to get ready for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Pan: Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Spaghetti: Cook the dried spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain thoroughly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and drained spaghetti with the chopped cooked chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, thawed and drained spinach, minced garlic, 1 cup of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and half of the French fried onions. Stir everything together until well incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top, followed by the remaining French fried onions for a crispy finish.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese has melted and started to brown slightly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy and flavorful chicken spaghetti casserole warm.
Notes
- Be sure to fully thaw and drain the spinach to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade or low-sodium version for a healthier option.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- For a crunchier topping, add the French fried onions during the last 5 minutes of baking instead of the beginning.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
