Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: A Cheesy, Comforting Family Favorite
When you’re craving something creamy, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying, this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect choice. It combines tender shredded chicken, spaghetti, creamy soup, sour cream, and plenty of melted cheese into one irresistible baked dish. Add a little Tex-Mex flair with diced tomatoes and green chilies, and you’ve got a casserole that’s both cozy and bold in flavor.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings since it comes together quickly, bakes in just 30 minutes, and serves a crowd.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 8 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup crushed tortilla chips (optional, for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken & Pasta
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions, drain well, and set aside.
- Shred cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Make the Casserole Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Chicken
- Spaghetti
- Cream of chicken soup
- Diced tomatoes with chilies (undrained)
- Sour cream
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Green onions
- Half of the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses
Season with salt and pepper, then stir until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips over the top.
4. Bake
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
5. Serve & Enjoy
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra green onions or cilantro for freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor
Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
Perfect for meal prep or freezing
Family-friendly dish that everyone will love
Tips & Variations
- Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Veggie boost: Mix in corn, bell peppers, or black beans.
- Protein swap: Try shredded turkey or even ground beef instead of chicken.
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze before baking (tightly wrapped) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions.
Nutrition (per serving, 6–8 servings)
- Calories: 350–400 kcal
- Protein: 20–25g
- Carbs: 30–35g
- Fat: 15–18g
This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and loaded with Southwestern flavor. It’s a dish you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.