Monterey Chicken Spaghetti: A Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Meal

When it comes to easy comfort food, casseroles are a staple in many kitchens. Monterey Chicken Spaghetti takes the classic chicken pasta casserole to a whole new level with its creamy texture, savory flavors, and a cheesy topping that adds just the right amount of crunch. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. With a rich combination of sour cream, cream of chicken soup, tender chicken, spinach, and Monterey Jack cheese, this casserole is loaded with flavor and will leave everyone at the table satisfied.

Not only is this recipe simple to put together, but it also offers the perfect balance of textures with creamy pasta and a crispy French fried onion topping. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet comforting, ideal for any time of year when you’re craving something rich and savory.

Ingredients to Prepare

This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti recipe makes 6 hearty servings, providing a well-rounded meal with protein, veggies, and pasta. It’s a perfect choice for a satisfying dinner that can be enjoyed with family or guests, offering a variety of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:
12 ounces dried spaghetti
4 cups chopped cooked chicken
1 (16-ounce) container sour cream
2 (10.5-ounce) cans unsalted cream of chicken soup
1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 (6-ounce) can French’s French Fried Onions, divided

How to Make

This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a straightforward dish that takes less than an hour from start to finish. It’s the perfect solution for a weeknight dinner when you want something comforting and full of flavor without a lot of fuss. Here’s how to make it:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent the casserole from sticking, and set it aside.

2. Cook the Spaghetti:

Boil the spaghetti according to the package directions. Once the pasta is cooked al dente, drain it well and set it aside. Al dente pasta ensures that it will not become too soft after baking in the oven.

3. Prepare the Casserole Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, thawed and drained spinach, 1 ½ cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, minced garlic, and the cooked spaghetti. Mix everything together thoroughly until the ingredients are well distributed and the chicken and pasta are coated in the creamy sauce.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

Transfer the spaghetti and chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking. Top the mixture with the remaining ½ cup of Monterey Jack cheese and half of the French’s French Fried Onions.

5. Bake the Casserole:

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the mixture is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is fully melted. The casserole should be golden around the edges, signaling that it is cooked through.

6. Add the Final Crunch:

Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the remaining French Fried Onions over the top. Return the casserole to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to allow the onions to crisp up. This step ensures that your dish has a delightful crispy topping that contrasts with the creamy interior.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. You can garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color if desired.

Helpful Tips:

• Chicken Options: This recipe is great for using leftover chicken, but rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken breasts also work well. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients.
• Spinach Preparation: Be sure to thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly to avoid adding excess moisture to the casserole. You can press the spinach between paper towels or use a kitchen towel to squeeze out as much water as possible.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: For a more flavorful dish, you can use regular cream of chicken soup instead of unsalted. If you prefer homemade, you can prepare your own cream of chicken soup for added freshness and flavor.
• Cheese Variations: While Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully and adds creaminess to the dish, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions:

• Side Dishes: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti pairs well with simple side dishes like a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. These sides balance out the richness of the casserole, making for a complete meal.
• Toppings: For extra flavor, top your casserole with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for a bit of spice.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 450 kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g

Storage and Leftovers

• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This casserole holds up well, and the flavors deepen as it sits.
• Reheating: To reheat, cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick lunch or dinner.
• Freezing: You can prepare this casserole in advance and freeze it before baking. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a little extra cooking time if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach, but be sure to cook it down first. After cooking, drain it well to remove excess water before adding it to the casserole.

What type of pasta works best for this dish?
While spaghetti is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can use other pasta types like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
To make a lighter version of Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, you can use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese. You could also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce calories and add some extra protein.

Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or even broccoli. Just sauté or steam the vegetables beforehand to ensure they are fully cooked when added to the casserole.

Can I substitute another cheese for Monterey Jack?
Yes, if you prefer a different flavor or texture, you can swap Monterey Jack cheese for sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack cheese. Each will give the dish its own unique flavor.

Conclusion

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, creamy sauces, melted cheese, and crispy onions in one delicious casserole. This dish is easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or serving to guests. Whether you’re looking for a new family favorite or a make-ahead meal, this casserole is sure to please. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and satisfying crunch, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, and toppings to make it your own!

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