Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

There’s something deeply satisfying about sitting down to a warm, cheesy casserole after a long day. Whether you’re gathering around the table for a casual family dinner, hosting a Sunday potluck, or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is guaranteed to impress. Rich, creamy, and brimming with flavor, it brings together the familiar comforts of a classic chicken casserole with the bold punch of Monterey Jack cheese and savory fried onions.

This recipe was inspired by a family friend who used to make a creamy chicken and spinach bake every Easter. Over the years, we tweaked the flavors, added a cheesy twist, and gave it a Southern flair with crispy fried onions on top. Now, it’s a crowd favorite that never lasts more than a day in our house. Read on to discover how this easy, soul-warming dish can become a staple in your kitchen too!

Why You’ll Love This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

  • Easy to Make: A few simple steps and basic ingredients make this perfect for beginner cooks.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the night before and pop it in the oven when ready.
  • Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love the cheesy goodness and mild flavors.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for batch cooking or taking to a friend in need.
  • Balanced Flavor: Creamy, cheesy, and just the right hint of garlic and spinach.

This dish checks all the comfort food boxes—and then some!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you get started, here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for this satisfying casserole:

  • 12 ounces dried spaghetti – Traditional pasta that holds up well to creamy sauces.
  • 4 cups chopped cooked chicken – Great for using leftover rotisserie chicken or meal-prepped chicken breasts.
  • 1 (16-ounce) container sour cream – Adds a smooth, tangy creaminess to the dish.
  • 2 (10.5-ounce) cans unsalted cream of chicken soup – A rich and flavorful base without added salt.
  • 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained – Adds nutrition and texture.
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided – Melty and mild with a slight kick.
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced – A hint of savory depth.
  • 1 (6-ounce) can French’s French Fried Onions, divided – For that irresistible crunchy topping.

Pro Tip: Use low-sodium or unsalted soup to keep the flavors balanced, especially with salty toppings like fried onions.

Step-by-Step Directions

Let’s dive into how to bring this savory casserole together.

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and help with cleanup.

2. Cook the Pasta

Prepare the spaghetti according to the package directions, aiming for al dente. This ensures the pasta maintains its texture after baking. Drain and set aside.

Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue to soften in the oven!

3. Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine:

  • Cooked chicken
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Sour cream
  • Drained spinach
  • 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese
  • Minced garlic
  • Half of the fried onions

Stir until everything is thoroughly mixed and evenly coated.

4. Combine Pasta with Chicken Mixture

Fold the cooked spaghetti into your creamy chicken-spinach mixture. Toss gently to coat every strand with flavor.

5. Transfer to Baking Dish

Spoon the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

6. Add Cheese & Onion Topping

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the casserole. Then top with the rest of the French Fried Onions.

The cheese melts into a gooey layer, while the onions add crunch and golden color.

7. Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, or until:

  • The casserole is hot and bubbly
  • The cheese is melted
  • The onions are crisp and golden brown

Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving for easier slicing and richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is hearty enough to stand alone, but here are some side ideas to round out the meal:

  • Garlic bread or crusty sourdough
  • Simple green salad with vinaigrette
  • Roasted vegetables, like carrots or Brussels sprouts
  • Steamed broccoli for added greens

Hosting a dinner party? Pair this with a Chardonnay or light Pinot Noir for an elevated touch.

Make It Your Own: Customization Ideas

Want to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs? Here are some ideas:

  • Add heat: Stir in a can of green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper.
  • Swap the cheese: Use pepper jack, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
  • Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and check the soup and onions for gluten content.
  • Add veggies: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes add depth and texture.
  • Make it lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This dish stores beautifully and tastes just as good the next day—maybe even better.

Refrigerate:

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freeze:

  • Wrap the entire casserole tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheat:

  • Warm individual portions in the microwave.
  • Reheat the whole dish in a 350°F oven for 20–30 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

Meal Prep Tips

Want to make this recipe even easier on a weeknight? Try these hacks:

  • Pre-cook the chicken ahead of time or use rotisserie chicken.
  • Make the mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge.
  • Assemble and freeze for a ready-to-bake meal down the line.

Nutrition at a Glance (Estimated per serving)

  • Calories: 520
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Calcium: 250mg
  • Iron: 2mg

Note: Exact values may vary depending on ingredient brands and substitutions.

What Readers Are Saying

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“My kids devoured it, spinach and all! The crunchy onions on top were the perfect touch.” – Amanda M.

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“Took this to a potluck and had people asking for the recipe. It’s a new favorite!” – Brian T.

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“I made a double batch and froze half. Both were incredible! Creamy, cheesy, and so easy.” – Jen C.

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Comfort Food

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing casserole that checks every box—creamy, cheesy, satisfying, and easy—this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is your answer. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug, the kind you’ll come back to again and again.

Whether you’re cooking for a big family, meal-prepping for the week, or simply indulging in a cozy night in, this recipe delivers big on flavor without demanding much from your pantry or your time.

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