Monterey Chicken Spaghetti: A Cheesy Delight with a Crunchy Topping Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that immediately makes you feel at home. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender chicken and spinach, it’s a casserole that manages to be both hearty and light. The magic truly happens with that crispy, golden onion topping which adds an irresistible crunch to every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients into something spectacular.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right for this recipe is key because each one adds a special touch to the overall flavor and texture. From the tender chicken to the creamy base and the crunchy onions, every element plays a crucial role in turning this into a memorable meal.
- 12 ounces dried spaghetti: This pasta forms the perfect base, soaking up the creamy sauce without losing its bite.
- 4 cups chopped cooked chicken: Adds heartiness and protein, making this casserole a complete meal.
- 1 (16-ounce) container sour cream: Brings a tangy creaminess that balances the richness of the cheese.
- 2 (10.5-ounce) cans unsalted cream of chicken soup: Acts as the velvety sauce tying everything together.
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained: Infuses the dish with color and a lovely earthy flavor.
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided: Provides mild, melty cheesiness, with some melted inside and some sprinkled on top.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Offers a gentle zesty warmth that awakens the flavors.
- 1 (6-ounce) can French’s French Fried Onions, divided: This crunchy topping adds a mouthwatering texture contrast that makes the dish unforgettable.
How to Make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti: A Cheesy Delight with a Crunchy Topping Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A lightly sprayed 9×13-inch baking dish will be ready to hold the layers of goodness, ensuring the spaghetti doesn’t stick and bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Pasta
Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until just al dente. This is important because the pasta will continue to cook inside the casserole, and you want it perfectly tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, well-drained spinach, 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, minced garlic, and half of the French fried onions. Give it a good stir until all ingredients become one creamy, flavorful mixture. This is where all the rich, cheesy, and savory notes meld beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Mixture
Gently fold the cooked spaghetti into the chicken mixture, making sure every strand is coated with that luscious sauce. Then pour this combined mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform baking.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese generously over the top, followed by the rest of the crispy French fried onions. These toppings will create the crunchy, golden finish that makes this casserole stand out.
Step 6: Bake
Pop the casserole into the oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye out for bubbling sauce and golden-brown onions topping the dish. This baking time allows all flavors to meld, and the topping to crisp to perfection.
How to Serve Monterey Chicken Spaghetti: A Cheesy Delight with a Crunchy Topping Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions brightens the casserole with a pop of color and a subtle freshness that complements the creamy richness.
Side Dishes
This dish is delicious on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables adds balance and variety to the meal. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also make fantastic accompaniments to soak up every last bit of the sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Monterey Chicken Spaghetti in individual ramekins for a charming presentation at dinner parties. You can also turn leftovers into a skillet dinner topped with a fried egg for a fun breakfast twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooling to room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the next-day meal even tastier.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well. For best results, freeze before baking. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then add extra time when baking to ensure it heats evenly all the way through.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the topping crispy. Alternatively, microwave on medium power covered with a microwave-safe lid, but the onions may lose some crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh spinach, sauté it briefly until wilted, then squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the mix. This keeps the casserole from becoming watery.
What type of chicken works best?
Cooked, shredded, or diced chicken breast or rotisserie chicken both work perfectly. Using pre-cooked chicken speeds up prep and infuses great flavor.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that the cream of chicken soup and fried onions are gluten-free.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a delicious meat-free casserole that still tastes rich and satisfying.
How do I ensure the topping stays crunchy?
Adding the French fried onions just before baking and baking uncovered helps them crisp up nicely. Avoid covering the casserole with foil during baking.
Final Thoughts
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti: A Cheesy Delight with a Crunchy Topping Recipe is more than just a casserole; it’s a loving hug on a plate. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and golden, crispy topping, it’s an easy dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, and dive into making this comforting classic that delivers happiness in every bite!
Print
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti: A Cheesy Delight with a Crunchy Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting baked casserole featuring tender cooked chicken, creamy spinach, melted Monterey Jack cheese, and a crunchy French fried onion topping. This satisfying dish combines flavorful ingredients with a cheesy sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces dried spaghetti
Main Mixture
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prepare it for the casserole.
- Prepare the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside to cool slightly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, drained spinach, 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, minced garlic, and half a can of French fried onions. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Mixture: Stir the cooked spaghetti into the chicken mixture, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and ingredients. Pour this combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese over the pasta mixture. Then, top it with the rest of the French fried onions to create a crunchy, golden topping once baked.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the French fried onions have turned a golden brown color.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the frozen spinach well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For added flavor, consider seasoning with black pepper or a pinch of paprika.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
