Creamy Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake -

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Creamy Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake. With layers of tender chicken, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and crunchy fried onions, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit at your dinner table. It’s not just delicious, but also easy to prepare, making it the perfect option for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Creamy Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake is not only a delightful blend of flavors and textures, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with seasonal vegetables or your family’s favorite protein. The creamy sour cream and the delectable cream of chicken soup create a rich sauce that coats every bite of pasta, while the Monterey Jack cheese adds a melty, gooey finish. Plus, the crispy fried onions on top bring an extra delightful crunch. This recipe yields generous servings, making it perfect for leftovers or feeding a crowd!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake

Prep Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Boost Nutrition: Consider adding fresh vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini along with the spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
Choose the Right Cheese: While Monterey Jack is the star, you can mix in cheddar or mozzarella for an extra cheesy flavor.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Make sure to cook the spaghetti until just al dente; it will continue cooking in the oven.

Crispy Onions Tip: For extra crunch, add more fried onions halfway through baking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious and creamy pasta bake:

12 oz spaghetti

4 cups cooked, chopped chicken
16 oz sour cream
2 cans cream of chicken soup

10 oz frozen spinach, thawed & drained
2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can French-fried onions, divided

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake:

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Boil the spaghetti in a large pot of salted water until al dente, then drain thoroughly.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, thawed spinach, 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, minced garlic, and half of the fried onions. Mix well to create a creamy filling.
Step 4: Gently fold the cooked spaghetti into the chicken mixture until well combined.

Step 5: Spread the mixture evenly into the greased baking dish.
Step 6: Top the pasta mixture with the remaining Monterey Jack cheese and the rest of the French-fried onions.
Step 7: Bake uncovered for 40-50 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.

2. What can I use instead of chicken?

You can use shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian substitutes like tofu or chickpeas for a meatless version.

3. How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

4. What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta bake pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your cream of chicken soup and fried onions are gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

This Creamy Monterey Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and satisfying meal full of flavor and texture. It’s a surefire way to please the entire family, while also making life a little easier in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or saving it for leftovers, this recipe will soon become a staple in your home. Don’t hesitate; whip up this delightful dish for your next family gathering or cozy night in!