The Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole combines the creamy richness of sour cream and Monterey Jack cheese with tender chicken, all wrapped in a delicious spaghetti base. Ideal for weeknight dinners and family gatherings, this dish provides comforting flavors that bring everyone to the table. With a crunchy layer of French fried onions on top, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s just as good reheated the next day.
If you’re a fan of easy pasta recipes, pasta dishes like this casserole are perfect for satisfying cravings without complex ingredients. Similarly, cheesy casserole dishes have become staples of cozy comfort food cooking for a reason: they’re versatile and loved by all ages.
Ingredients Overview :
Creating the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole only requires a few key ingredients, many of which you may already have in your pantry. Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need and how these ingredients contribute to the dish:
- Dried Spaghetti (12 ounces): Provides the classic pasta base. Opt for whole wheat pasta for added fiber, or try a gluten-free option if needed.
- Cooked Chicken (4 cups, chopped): Using chicken that’s already cooked makes this casserole even easier. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient choice and adds extra flavor.
- Sour Cream (16-ounce container): This ingredient adds a rich, tangy creaminess, similar to other sour cream-based dishes.
- Cream of Chicken Soup (two 10.5-ounce cans): Essential for a smooth, thick base, this soup binds everything together. Consider a low-sodium or homemade version for a healthier option.
- Frozen Spinach (10 ounces, thawed and drained): Adds a nutritious boost. Fresh spinach can be used if blanched and drained thoroughly.
- Monterey Jack Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Known for its meltability and mild flavor, cheese varieties like Monterey Jack make casseroles perfectly gooey.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic infuses depth and aroma, enhancing the overall flavor.
- French Fried Onions (6-ounce can): Half is mixed into the casserole for texture, while the rest creates a crunchy topping, making each bite extra satisfying.
For those looking to experiment, this casserole can be customized. Adding vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers, or swapping in other cheeses like cheddar, can offer a twist on this classic.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
To start, set your oven to 350°F. Preparing the baking dish is essential for easy serving and cleanup afterward. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil. This step ensures the casserole doesn’t stick and provides a golden, crispy bottom layer. Using a glass or ceramic baking dish helps maintain even heat, making it ideal for casseroles like this. Baking dish options on Pinterest offer a variety of choices if you’re interested in different materials.
Step 2: Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the spaghetti according to package directions until it’s al dente. This cooking stage is critical, as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
Tip: Toss the drained spaghetti with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. For those who prefer gluten-free or whole-wheat pasta, adjust the cooking time slightly as these types tend to cook differently.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients: chopped chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, thawed and drained spinach, one cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, minced garlic, and half of the French fried onions. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures an even distribution of flavor throughout the casserole.
To customize this dish further, consider adding a few spices for a flavor boost. Common options include paprika, black pepper, or a pinch of Italian seasoning. Additionally, if you enjoy a hint of heat, diced green chiles or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can be mixed in.
Cheese lovers will appreciate that this casserole remains creamy and satisfying thanks to the combination of Monterey Jack and sour cream, which blend well with the smoothness of the soup base.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken Mixture
Once the chicken mixture is fully blended, add the cooked spaghetti and carefully stir until each noodle is coated. This step ensures that every bite of the casserole has the same savory, cheesy goodness. Mixing thoroughly is essential for maintaining the casserole’s creamy consistency, which will bake evenly in the oven.
If you’re exploring comfort food recipes, this step is where you can decide on the casserole’s texture. For a creamier finish, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to the mixture, which also helps if you’ve used whole wheat or gluten-free pasta that might absorb more liquid.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Now, it’s time to add that irresistible topping. Sprinkle the remaining cup of Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the pasta mixture in the baking dish, followed by the rest of the French fried onions. This topping provides a layer of gooey cheese along with a crispy, flavorful crunch that makes this casserole stand out.
Make sure to spread the toppings evenly for consistent texture in every bite. For extra appeal, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or chopped parsley over the top before baking. This final layer of French fried onions adds both texture and a golden-brown color that enhances the casserole’s presentation.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 40 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the French fried onions have turned a beautiful golden-brown. Keep an eye on the casserole in the last 10 minutes to ensure it doesn’t overbrown—if the onions start browning too quickly, cover the dish lightly with foil.
After baking, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting time lets the ingredients settle, making it easier to serve without losing its structure.
Serving Suggestions :
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, making it a flexible main course. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the rich flavors of the casserole. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also ideal accompaniments, perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
For a garnish, try a sprinkle of chopped parsley for color, or add a dash of red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat. This casserole is satisfying on its own but pairs well with light, crisp sides that add contrast to its cheesy, creamy texture.
Tips for Perfect Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole :
Achieving the best results with this casserole is simple with a few tips and tricks:
- Make-Ahead Prep: To save time, prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it fully, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then bake as directed.
- Freezing Instructions: This casserole is also freezer-friendly. Assemble it in a freezer-safe container, cover it with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as usual. If baking from frozen, add an extra 15-20 minutes to the cook time, checking the center for doneness.
- Customizations: This recipe is versatile. Swap in your favorite cheese like cheddar or Colby Jack for a slightly different flavor, or add vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli. For extra protein, consider mixing in bacon bits or diced ham.
- Leftover Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The flavors intensify over time, making leftovers even more delicious!
Following these tips, you’ll have a reliable go-to dish for busy nights or special occasions, with all the cheesy, comforting goodness you crave in a casserole.
Nutritional Information (per serving) :
For those mindful of nutrition, here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on eight servings):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 22g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fiber: 3g
This casserole is hearty and satisfying, thanks to the protein from the chicken and the balance of cheese and creamy ingredients. To make this dish lighter, consider using reduced-fat sour cream, low-sodium cream of chicken soup, or part-skim cheese. For additional fiber, opt for whole-wheat spaghetti.
Frequently Asked Questions :
Here are some common questions and answers about preparing and customizing the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole:
- Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach works well in this recipe. Simply sauté it briefly until wilted, then drain any excess moisture before adding it to the mixture. - Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta and choose a gluten-free cream of chicken soup. The recipe remains just as creamy and flavorful with these substitutions. - What type of chicken works best?
Rotisserie chicken is a great option for convenience, adding extra flavor. Grilled or leftover baked chicken works well too—just be sure it’s not overly seasoned so the casserole flavors shine. - Can I substitute the Monterey Jack cheese?
Definitely! Cheddar, Colby Jack, or even mozzarella can replace Monterey Jack for a different taste. Each cheese brings a unique flavor, so feel free to experiment. - Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, this recipe is versatile. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or even broccoli make great additions. Just chop them finely and add them to the chicken mixture before baking.

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- Author: Alexander
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Description
This creamy, cheesy chicken spaghetti casserole is loaded with Monterey Jack cheese, tender spinach, and a crunchy French fried onion topping. Perfect for cozy family dinners, this dish combines comfort food flavors with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces dried spaghetti
- 4 cups chopped cooked chicken (rotisserie works great!)
- 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 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (6-ounce) can French’s French Fried Onions, divided
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2️⃣ Prepare the Pasta: Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3️⃣ Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, thawed and drained spinach, 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, minced garlic, and half the can of French Fried Onions.
4️⃣ Combine Pasta and Mixture: Add the cooked spaghetti to the chicken mixture. Stir until the spaghetti is well-coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
5️⃣ Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the pasta mixture. Then, add the remaining French Fried Onions for a crunchy finish.
6️⃣ Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the onions are golden brown.
Notes
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
- Optional Add-Ins: For extra flavor, consider adding chopped mushrooms or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8