Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Prepare the Pasta: Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside for later.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, drained spinach, 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, minced garlic, and half of the French Fried Onions.
Combine Pasta and Mixture: Stir the cooked spaghetti into the chicken mixture thoroughly, then pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese over the pasta and top with the rest of the French Fried Onions for that extra crunch.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the onions take on a golden brown color.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Once your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is ready, serve it hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a touch of color. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a delightful meal balance. For drinks, consider serving a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea to complement the rich, cheesy dish.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you have any leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine!), let the casserole cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place the casserole back in the oven until heated through, making sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Prep Ahead: If you know you’ll be short on time, you can prepare the chicken, spinach, and sauce ahead of time and assemble the casserole later.
Even Cooking: Make sure to mix the pasta well with the chicken mixture to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution throughout the dish.
Add Spice: Want to kick it up a notch? A dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes will add a nice kick!

Creative Twists

This recipe is versatile! Here are a few variations you can explore:

Italian Style: Add Italian seasoning and swap the Monterey Jack for mozzarella and parmesan.
Veggie Lovers: Mix in additional vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Creamy Mushroom: Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

What is the prep time for Monterey Chicken Spaghetti?

The prep time for this dish is about 15-20 minutes if you have the chicken cooked already. Cooking the spaghetti will add a little more time, but it’s pretty quick overall.

Can I freeze Monterey Chicken Spaghetti?

Yes! After assembling, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook it, defrost overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

Is there a substitute for the French Fried Onions?

If you don’t have French Fried Onions, you can crush regular fried onion rings for a similar crunch or omit them altogether. A sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs mixed with a touch of oil can also work as a topping for extra texture.