Name: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 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 (approximately 1 can)

Jump to Recipe

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and flavorful spinach, all tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. This hearty casserole is a comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and delicious, making it an ideal dish for weeknight dinners or casual family gatherings. The blend of Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheese brings a rich, savory flavor, while the sour cream and cream of chicken soup create a luscious sauce that coats every bite. The addition of garlic and onion powder adds depth without overpowering the other flavors, and the crispy French fried onions on top add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy interior.

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying comfort food or a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti delivers all the flavors you want with minimal effort. Its balance of protein, vegetables, and pasta makes it a complete meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Cheesy

The combination of sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and cheeses creates a rich, velvety sauce.

2. Packed with Protein and Veggies

Chicken and spinach make this dish hearty and nutritious.

3. Easy to Prepare

Most ingredients are pantry staples, and the recipe comes together quickly.

4. Crowd-Pleaser

Perfect for feeding a family or bringing to gatherings.

5. Crunchy Topping

French fried onions add a wonderful texture contrast.

Ingredients

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

Variations

Use Different Cheese

Swap Monterey Jack for cheddar or mozzarella for a different cheese profile.

Add More Vegetables

Include mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

Use Rotisserie Chicken

For convenience, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.

Make it Spicy

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.

Substitute Cream Soup

Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup as an alternative.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, beaten egg, chopped spinach, minced garlic (or garlic powder), cream of chicken soup, and onion powder.

Step 3

Add the cooked spaghetti to the mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly combined.

Step 4

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

Step 5

Sprinkle half of the French fried onions evenly over the top.

Step 6

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25–30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the onions are golden.

Step 7

Remove from oven and sprinkle the remaining French fried onions on top for extra crunch.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t overcook the spaghetti; al dente holds up better in the casserole.
Make sure the spinach is fully thawed and drained to avoid watery casserole.
Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to set.
Customize the amount of French fried onions to your preference for topping crunch.

How to Serve

Serve Monterey Chicken Spaghetti hot, directly from the casserole dish. It pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Leftovers also make a great next-day lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool leftovers completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well. Freeze before baking for best texture, then thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, use fresh spinach (about 4 cups), sautéed and drained before mixing in.

2. Can I use different pasta?

Yes, penne or rotini work well as substitutes.

3. What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

You can make a quick homemade cream soup or substitute with cream of mushroom.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives to adapt.

5. Is Monterey Jack cheese necessary?

No, you can use other mild cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar.

6. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely—add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for variety.

7. How long does this dish keep?

Stored in the fridge, it lasts up to 3 days.

8. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it the day before and bake just before serving.

9. Can I skip the French fried onions?

You can omit or substitute with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.

10. How do I avoid the casserole being watery?

Drain spinach well and avoid overcooking the pasta.

Conclusion

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein and veggies. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether for a family dinner or potluck, its rich flavors and satisfying textures make it a meal everyone will enjoy.