Name: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 2 chicken breasts, cooked and chopped; 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded; 1 cup sour cream; 1 egg, beaten; 10 oz package chopped spinach, thawed and drained; 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tablespoon garlic powder); 2 (10 oz) cans cream of chicken soup; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 6 oz French fried onions, divided (equal to one can)

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Looking for a hearty, comforting dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is the perfect choice. Combining tender chicken, creamy cheeses, savory garlic, and a hint of onion and spinach, this casserole-style pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can create a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.

The creamy sauce, made with a blend of Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheeses, coats every strand of pasta, while the added chicken and spinach provide texture and a nutritious boost. Topped with crispy French fried onions, this dish has a delightful crunch that adds to the overall appeal. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or entertaining guests, this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comforting and Hearty

With a creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken, this dish is incredibly comforting and filling—perfect for a cozy meal.

2. Easy to Make

This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any complicated cooking techniques, making it ideal for beginners or busy cooks.

3. Packed with Flavor

The combination of garlic, onion powder, and two types of cheese creates a rich, flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the chicken and pasta.

4. Vegetable Boost

The addition of thawed spinach adds a nutritious twist without compromising on taste.

5. Crispy Topping

The French fried onions provide a satisfying crunch, giving the dish an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Spaghetti
Cooked and chopped chicken breasts
Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
Parmesan cheese (shredded)
Sour cream
Egg (beaten)
Thawed chopped spinach
Garlic (minced) or garlic powder
Cream of chicken soup (2 cans)
Onion powder
French fried onions (divided)

Variations

Use Ground Chicken or Turkey: For a leaner version of this recipe, substitute the chicken breasts with ground chicken or turkey.
Swap the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of Monterey Jack, you can use cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and replace it with extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
Spicy Twist: Add diced green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free for a gluten-free variation.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the cooked and chopped chicken, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, shredded Parmesan cheese, sour cream, beaten egg, thawed spinach, minced garlic (or garlic powder), cream of chicken soup, and onion powder. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine with Spaghetti

Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce mixture, stirring gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Add French Fried Onions

Top the pasta mixture with the French fried onions, reserving some for later if desired.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve hot. Garnish with the reserved French fried onions if you’d like extra crunch.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.
Make it Extra Creamy: Add a bit more sour cream or a splash of milk to the sauce if you prefer a creamier texture.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will bake in the oven, be sure not to overcook it before adding it to the casserole.
Adjust the Garlic: If you love garlic, feel free to add more minced garlic or garlic powder to the sauce.
Top with Extra Cheese: For an even cheesier dish, sprinkle a bit of extra Monterey Jack or Parmesan on top before baking.

How to Serve

This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. Serve it alongside steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus for a well-rounded dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Monterey Chicken Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.

Freezing

To freeze, assemble the dish but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the cold ingredients.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You may want to add a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or rotini.

2. Can I use frozen spinach instead of thawed spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it. Then, bake it the next day.

4. Can I use a different cheese instead of Monterey Jack?

Yes, cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses would all work well as a substitute for Monterey Jack.

5. Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

You can add some red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.

6. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a leaner alternative to regular bacon.

7. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, fresh minced garlic adds a stronger flavor, but feel free to use garlic powder if you prefer.

8. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta and make sure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.

9. How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

10. Can I top this with more French fried onions?

Yes, adding more French fried onions on top before serving will enhance the crunchy texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a deliciously comforting, creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for busy nights or family dinners. With its combination of tender chicken, creamy cheeses, savory seasonings, and crispy French fried onions, it’s a dish that satisfies both your hunger and your taste buds. Easy to make and easily customizable, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.