If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food, this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti casserole is sure to hit the spot. Creamy, cheesy, and baked until golden, it brings together tender shredded chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a rich sauce topped with crispy French fried onions.
It’s the kind of cozy, family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or Sunday suppers. Even better? You can prep it ahead of time or freeze it for a quick, stress-free meal later.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Comfort food classic: Creamy sauce, cheesy pasta, and crunchy topping = perfection.
✔️ Family-approved: Familiar flavors that everyone at the table will enjoy.
✔️ Easy prep ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance for a no-fuss dinner.
✔️ Versatile: Add spinach, tomatoes, or swap toppings for your own twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded and divided
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry (optional)
- 1 (6 oz) can French fried onions, divided
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
- 1 small onion, finely diced (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the pasta
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain well.
2. Sauté aromatics (optional)
If you like extra flavor, heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté the diced onion until softened, then stir in garlic and onion powder.
3. Make the filling
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half the French fried onions. Stir in the spinach (if using), shredded chicken, and sautéed onions (if prepared).
4. Assemble the casserole
Add the cooked spaghetti and half the cheese to the chicken mixture. Stir until evenly coated. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake
Top with the remaining cheese and bake uncovered for 30 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
6. Add the crispy topping
Sprinkle the remaining French fried onions on top and bake for another 5 minutes until golden and crispy.
7. Serve
Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Recipe Notes & Variations
- Spicy kick: Stir in a can of diced tomatoes with green chiles for extra flavor.
- Make-ahead option: Assemble up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate, or freeze unbaked for up to 6 months.
- Topping swap: Try crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter instead of French fried onions for a buttery crunch.
- Cheese swap: Monterey Jack is classic, but Colby Jack or cheddar also work.
What to Serve With Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
This hearty casserole pairs perfectly with:
- A crisp green salad or Caesar salad
- Steamed broccoli or roasted green beans
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked casserole tightly wrapped for up to 6 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding extra cooking time as needed.
- Reheat: Warm portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Final Thoughts
This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti casserole is everything you love about comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly good. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to serve at family gatherings or potlucks.
Once you try it, it just might become one of your go-to pasta bakes.
