When comfort food meets pure genius, you get Monterey Chicken Spaghetti! This creamy, cheesy, and savory dish is packed with bold smoky flavors that will have you going back for more. With tender spaghetti coated in a rich cheese sauce, juicy chicken, and crispy bacon, this baked dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or making a weeknight meal, this dish is an easy and delicious solution.
Why You’ll Love Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, this dish works as a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat for gatherings.
Budget-Friendly: Using simple pantry staples like pasta, cheese, and sour cream, you can create a rich, flavorful meal without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy: This no-fuss recipe comes together quickly and easily, making it ideal for busy days when you need a satisfying meal.
Customizable: Swap the cheese, use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers to make this dish your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: With its cheesy, creamy texture, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a hit with kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces dried spaghetti, cooked al dente
- 4 cups cooked chicken, chopped (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 (16-ounce) container sour cream
- 2 (10.5-ounce) cans 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: Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure the casserole bakes evenly and develops that perfect golden, bubbly top.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti in salted water until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic, and half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked spaghetti, chopped chicken, bacon, and spinach to the sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 490
- Servings: 1/8 of the casserole
How to Serve Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
- Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar or green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or asparagus make for a balanced meal.
Additional Tips
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
- Spice It Up: Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños if you prefer extra heat.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Freezer: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute Monterey Jack cheese?
A1: Yes! Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your choice works great.
Q2: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A2: Penne, fettuccine, or rotini all work well.
Q3: How do I make this dish gluten-free?
A3: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free cream of chicken soup substitute.
Q4: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A4: Yes! Assemble it up to a day in advance and bake just before serving.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Conclusion
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food, with its creamy texture, savory chicken, smoky bacon, and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it at a party, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Simple to prepare and delicious to eat, it’s one recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. Grab your fork and dig in—you won’t regret it!