If you are looking for a comforting dish that brings together creamy textures, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness, look no further than the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe. This casserole blends perfectly cooked spaghetti with savory chicken, creamy soup, and the delightful punch of Monterey Jack cheese, making it an irresistible meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. Whether for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe offers a warm, homey flavor that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this casserole just right means using ingredients that provide a balance of creamy richness, savory flavors, and a little bit of crunch. Each element plays a role in enhancing the taste, texture, and visual appeal of the dish, making your cooking process straightforward but rewarding.
- 12 oz dried spaghetti: The backbone of the dish, providing a hearty base that holds all the flavors together.
- 4 cups chopped cooked chicken: Tender, protein-packed chicken that adds substance and freshness.
- 1 (16-oz) container sour cream: Adds creaminess and a tangy depth that balances the richness.
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: Acts as the comforting, savory sauce binding everything harmoniously.
- 1 (10-oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained: Adds a pop of color and a subtle earthy flavor that complements the chicken.
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided: Provides a mild, melty, and slightly nutty cheese element for indulgence.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the casserole with aromatic warmth and depth.
- 1 (6-oz) can French’s French Fried Onions, divided: Adds the much-loved crispy topping that contrasts with the creamy interior.
How to Make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lightly spraying a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray to ensure your casserole won’t stick and will come out of the pan easily after baking. This small step helps maintain the perfect texture of the bottom layer.
Step 2: Cook and Drain the Spaghetti
Boil your spaghetti until it is al dente, which means it’s tender but still has a slight bite—this texture is ideal for casseroles as it prevents the noodles from becoming mushy when baked. After cooking, make sure to drain the spaghetti thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in your dish.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, thawed and drained spinach, minced garlic, and half of your shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Stir in the drained spaghetti until everything is evenly coated and mixed. This step ensures every bite is loaded with flavor and creaminess.
Step 4: Assemble and Top
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese over the top, and then add half of the French fried onions. These toppings will create a beautiful golden, crispy crust as the casserole bakes.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Place the casserole in a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 40 minutes. The key here is to let the cheese melt and bubble while the onions become perfectly crispy, giving the dish its signature appeal.
Step 6: Finish with Crunch
For the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining French fried onions on top to add an extra layer of crunch without burning them. This final touch makes the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe truly outstanding.
How to Serve Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes such as chopped parsley or a sprinkle of chopped green onions can brighten up the casserole’s rich flavors while adding a fresh aroma and a pop of vibrant green color.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or some steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, which will add a fresh contrast to the creamy dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming presentation, perfect for guests. Alternatively, topping each serving with extra fried onions or a slice of fresh tomato can make the dish feel even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this casserole keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making your next meal just as delightful.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this casserole later, it freezes well. Simply place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to three months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. For a crispier topping, uncover the last 5 minutes to allow the onions to regain their crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you choose fresh spinach, sauté it briefly to wilt and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole. This prevents extra moisture from making the dish soggy.
What type of cheese works best besides Monterey Jack?
While Monterey Jack cheese is mild and melty, you can swap in mozzarella for a similar texture or a mild cheddar for a sharper flavor, depending on your preference.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?
Using rotisserie chicken is a convenient and delicious shortcut that works perfectly in this casserole, adding a bit more flavor with minimal effort.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing in individual portions?
Yes, dividing the casserole into single serving containers before freezing makes reheating quick and convenient for busy days.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute gluten-free spaghetti and ensure the cream of chicken soups and fried onions are gluten-free or use homemade alternatives.
Final Thoughts
The Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a dinner hug: warm, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to bring to your next family gathering. So go on, gather your ingredients, and prepare to enjoy a meal that is as delicious as it is inviting. You won’t regret making this your go-to casserole!
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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 creamy Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole combines tender cooked chicken, spaghetti, and spinach in a cheesy sour cream and cream of chicken soup sauce. Topped with French fried onions and melted Monterey Jack cheese, it’s a comforting and flavorful main dish perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz dried spaghetti
Protein and Dairy
- 4 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 1 (16-oz) container sour cream
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
Canned and Frozen Items
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 (10-oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 (6-oz) can French’s French Fried Onions, divided
Other
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Cooking spray (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking and to make cleanup easier.
- Cook and drain spaghetti: Boil the dried spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain well to remove excess water.
- Mix casserole ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soups, thawed and drained spinach, minced garlic, half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and half of the French fried onions. Stir well to evenly mix.
- Combine spaghetti with mixture: Add the drained spaghetti to the mixture and gently fold together until the spaghetti is fully coated with the creamy mixture.
- Assemble casserole: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch pan and spread evenly.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese and French fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy your comforting Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole!
Notes
- Make sure to drain the spinach thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
- You can substitute fresh cooked chicken with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- If you prefer a less rich casserole, reduce the amount of sour cream or use a light version.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a crispy topping, add the French fried onions at the last 5 minutes of baking to avoid sogginess.
