Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Introduction
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting dish that combines the flavors of cheesy chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta into one delicious casserole. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. It’s easy to prepare, and everyone will love its creamy texture and cheesy topping.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it is packed with protein from the chicken, making it filling and satisfying. The combination of sour cream and cream of chicken soup creates a rich and creamy sauce that coats the pasta nicely. Plus, it features Monterey Jack cheese, which melts beautifully and adds a delicious flavor. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a go-to meal when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces dried spaghetti
- 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
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the 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.
- Stir the cooked spaghetti into the chicken mixture until everything is well mixed.
- Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese over the top. Add the rest of the French Fried Onions for extra crunch.
- Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the onions are golden brown.
How to Serve Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
When serving Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. You can pair it with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is cheesy and hearty on its own and doesn’t need much else to make it perfect!
How to Store Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it tightly and store it for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking the chicken. It adds great flavor and makes the recipe quicker.
- Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- If you like a bit of spice, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.
Variation
You can switch out the Monterey Jack cheese for other cheeses like cheddar orMozzarella if you prefer different flavors. Additionally, you can use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it.
2. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Just sauté it briefly to wilt it down before adding it to the mixture.
3. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to create a delicious vegetarian version.
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces dried spaghetti
- 4 cups chopped cooked chicken Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
- 1 16-ounce container sour cream
- 2 cans unsalted cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces each)
- 1 10-ounce package frozen spinach, thawed and drained Fresh spinach can be used, sautéed to wilt.
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided Cheddar or Mozzarella can be used as a variation.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 6-ounce can French's French Fried Onions, divided Adds crunch to the casserole.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the 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.
- Stir the cooked spaghetti into the chicken mixture until everything is well mixed.
Baking
- Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese over the top and add the rest of the French Fried Onions.
- Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the onions are golden brown.
