Description
This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, creamy baked pasta dish that combines tender chicken, spinach, creamy soup, and melted Monterey Jack cheese, topped with crispy French fried onions for a delightful crunch. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, this casserole brings together simple ingredients in a satisfying and flavorful way.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz dried spaghetti
- 4 cups chopped cooked chicken
Sauce and Vegetables
- 1 (16-oz) container sour cream
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 (10-oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Cheese and Toppings
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- 1 (6-oz) can French’s French Fried Onions, divided
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly spray a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Boil the 12 oz of dried spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, thawed and drained spinach, minced garlic, and 1 cup of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Fold in the drained spaghetti to evenly combine all ingredients.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese over the top.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle half of the French’s French Fried Onions evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35–40 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Final Touch: Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the remaining French fried onions on top to keep them crispy.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow it to set for easier portioning.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Ensure the spinach is well drained to avoid a watery casserole.
- For a lower-fat option, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adding a pinch of black pepper or red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor.
