Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, creamy spinach, and melty Monterey Jack cheese with perfectly cooked spaghetti. This casserole-style dish is an effortless weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With just a handful of pantry staples and simple steps, you can have a hearty, cheesy dinner ready in no time. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and easy to customize.

Why Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is Worth Your Time

If you love casseroles that bring together creamy textures, savory chicken, and gooey cheese, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti checks all the boxes. It’s a one-dish meal that’s great for busy nights when you want something filling without all the fuss. The cream of chicken soup and sour cream create a luscious sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti, while the spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition. The crunchy fried onions sprinkled on top provide the perfect crispy contrast to the creamy base. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can easily be adapted with whatever you have on hand.

This dish is perfect for those who love classic comfort food with a slight twist. If you enjoy recipes like Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole or crave creamy pasta dishes, you’ll adore the rich flavors and simple prep of Monterey Chicken Spaghetti.

What You’ll Gather

• 12 oz dried spaghetti
• 4 cups chopped cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works beautifully)
• 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

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large pot – for boiling the spaghetti
• Colander – to drain the pasta and spinach
• Mixing bowl – to combine the creamy sauce ingredients
• Baking dish (9×13 inch) – to bake the casserole
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts
• Cheese grater (optional) – if shredding your own Monterey Jack cheese

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti: How It’s Done

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dried spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, and thawed, drained spinach. Stir until well mixed and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Cheese

Add the chopped cooked chicken and 1 cup of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the sauce mixture. Fold everything together until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Mix Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and gently toss until every strand is coated in the creamy chicken and spinach sauce.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish

Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.

Step 6: Add the Crunch

Sprinkle half of the French Fried Onions over the cheese layer. This will add a delightful crispy texture after baking.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.

Step 8: Finish with Fried Onions

Remove the dish from the oven and immediately sprinkle the remaining French Fried Onions over the top for extra crunch and flavor.

Fit It to Your Goals

• Make it lighter: Use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, and increase the amount of spinach or add other veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers.
• Boost protein: Add extra chicken or mix in cooked turkey for more lean protein.
• Vegetarian option: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas and use vegetable cream soup instead.
• Meal prep friendly: This dish reheats well for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Cook’s Notes

• Make sure to drain the thawed spinach well to avoid excess water in the casserole.
• Using cooked chicken from a rotisserie or leftovers saves time.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend the soup and sour cream before mixing.
• French Fried Onions add signature crunch but can be omitted or replaced with toasted breadcrumbs for a different topping.
• Feel free to experiment with cheese blends; Monterey Jack’s mild flavor pairs well with sharp cheddar for extra punch.

Best Ways to Store

Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15 minutes. This casserole also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reader Q&A

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Use about 4 cups of fresh spinach, sauté it briefly to wilt and remove excess moisture before adding it to the casserole mixture.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cheese and sour cream?

You can substitute dairy-free sour cream and cheese options made from almond or coconut milk to make this recipe dairy-free while keeping the creamy texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day before baking. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to cook, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I serve with Monterey Chicken Spaghetti?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. For a twist, serve alongside a light tomato-based soup or garlic bread.

Cook This Next

• One Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta With Chicken – another creamy and delightful chicken pasta dish.
• Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole – a flavorful casserole packed with fajita spices and gooey cheese.
• Simple Garlic Chicken and Rice – a quick one-pot meal with bold garlic flavors.
• Baked Spinach and Artichoke Dip – a creamy appetizer perfect for sharing.

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to dive into making this comforting Monterey Chicken Spaghetti. Trust me, the creamy sauce, tender chicken, and that crispy onion topping will make it a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Gather your ingredients, warm up the kitchen, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, cheesy dinner that’s as easy to make as it is to eat. Happy cooking!

Share on Pinterest