Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

There’s nothing quite like a cozy evening in, where the aroma of home-cooked food fills the air and the family gathers around the table. One of my go-to dishes for such moments is Monterey Chicken Spaghetti. It’s a delightful blend of creamy and savory flavors that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. I remember the first time I made it; I was trying to impress some friends at a dinner party. I wanted something simple but delicious, and this dish delivered beyond my expectations.

As the spaghetti bubbled away and the scent of melted cheese wafted through the kitchen, I felt an excitement building. It was a hit! Everyone loved the combination of tender chicken, rich sour cream, and the crunchy topping of French Fried Onions. We ended up chatting and laughing around the dinner table for hours. Since then, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti has become a staple in my household.

This recipe is not just about the food; it’s about creating moments that you cherish with loved ones. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish always brings people together. I can’t wait for you to try it and make your own memories!

What You’ll Need for Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

To create a delicious Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, you need a combination of hearty ingredients that work harmoniously together. This dish is built on the foundation of tender chicken and creamy sauces, making it rich yet satisfying. The key players, like spaghetti, sour cream, and Monterey Jack cheese, come together to create a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!

• 12-oz dried spaghetti: This serves as the base of your dish, absorbing all the creamy goodness and providing a perfect texture when cooked al dente.
• 4 cups chopped cooked chicken: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken, making this dish quick to prepare.
• 1 (16-oz) container sour cream: Adds richness and creaminess, creating a luscious sauce that binds everything together.
• 2 (10.5-oz) cans unsalted cream of chicken soup: This serves as both a flavor enhancer and a thickening agent for the sauce.
• 1 (10-oz) package frozen spinach: Thawed and drained, this adds a pop of color and nutrition to your dish.
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese: A key ingredient that melts beautifully and adds a wonderful cheesy flavor.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma and enhances the overall taste.
• 1 (6-oz) can French’s French Fried Onions: This crunchy topping adds texture and a delicious savory flavor to the dish.

Recipe Directions for Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making Monterey Chicken Spaghetti. This step-by-step guide will make the process simple and enjoyable!

1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). This ensures the dish bakes evenly and thoroughly. While the oven is heating, prepare your baking dish by lightly spraying a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. You want the spaghetti to retain some firmness, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, the drained spinach, 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, and minced garlic. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and evenly distributed.
4. Gently stir in the drained spaghetti until it’s coated with the sauce. Ensure the pasta is fully enveloped in the creamy mixture, which will help it retain moisture while baking.
5. Pour the spaghetti mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. This ensures every bite has the perfect balance of chicken, sauce, and spaghetti.
6. Sprinkle the remaining shredded Monterey Jack cheese and half a can of the French Fried Onions on top. This will create a golden, crispy layer as it bakes.
7. Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
8. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to settle a bit, making it easier to serve without falling apart.
9. Lastly, serve your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti warm, garnished with the remaining French Fried Onions for extra crunch. Enjoy your delightful, comforting creation!

Recipe Variations about Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

There’s plenty of room for creativity with Monterey Chicken Spaghetti. Here are some variations to try when you make this dish.

• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the mixture for a little heat.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap out traditional spaghetti for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties to cater to dietary needs.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. You can prepare it, freeze it, and then bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it’s heated through.
• Crunchy Toppings: Try adding crushed potato chips or different crispy toppings for extra texture.

What to Serve With Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

When it comes to serving Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, the options are plentiful. Here are some ideas to complement your meal:

• Garlic Bread: A classic choice that pairs beautifully with any pasta dish. The buttery, garlicky flavor is irresistible!
• Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition to your meal.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a wonderful side.
• Occasions: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even simple weeknight dinners. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!
• Seasonal Pairings: In winter, serve this dish with hearty vegetables, while summer might call for lighter salads or grilled items.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its creamy texture and satisfying flavors make it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience its deliciousness for yourself. You might just find it becomes a regular in your weekly meal rotation!

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

The ultimate comfort food, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is creamy, cheesy, and satisfying. This easy weeknight dinner combines tender chicken with spaghetti and rich sauces, all topped with crispy onions. Your family will be begging for seconds!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish

Ingredients

  

• 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 cloves garlic minced
• 1 6-oz can French's French Fried Onions divided

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). This ensures the dish bakes evenly and thoroughly. While the oven is heating, prepare your baking dish by lightly spraying a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. You want the spaghetti to retain some firmness, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, the drained spinach, 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, and minced garlic. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and evenly distributed.
• Gently stir in the drained spaghetti until it's coated with the sauce. Ensure the pasta is fully enveloped in the creamy mixture, which will help it retain moisture while baking.
• Pour the spaghetti mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. This ensures every bite has the perfect balance of chicken, sauce, and spaghetti.
• Sprinkle the remaining shredded Monterey Jack cheese and half a can of the French Fried Onions on top. This will create a golden, crispy layer as it bakes.
• Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
• Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to settle a bit, making it easier to serve without falling apart.
• Lastly, serve your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti warm, garnished with the remaining French Fried Onions for extra crunch. Enjoy your delightful, comforting creation!

Notes

• Tip 1: I suggest using Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup in this dish to control the sodium.
• Tip 2: You can make this casserole in advance and refrigerate or freeze for later.
• Tip 3: If baking after refrigerating, you may need to add a few minutes to the cooking time.
• Tip 4: To bake after freezing, thaw completely and bake as directed above.

Keyword comfort food, Creamy Chicken Pasta, easy spaghetti recipe, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

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Meet Penny Porter

I bring the energy to our cooking sessions. I don’t have a “specialty” because I love it all I’m just as happy kneading dough as I am stirring a spicy curry. My favorite part of being on this team is the variety. One day we’re making pasta from scratch, and the next we’re grilling outdoors. I love the fast-paced creative process and am always the first one to grab an apron when a new idea pops up.