The Ultimate Monterey Chicken Spinach Bake Recipe for Dinner Win

Monterey chicken spinach bake offers a delightful twist on classic comfort food that instantly captivates taste buds.

Creamy textures and vibrant ingredients dance together in this mouthwatering dish.

Mediterranean-inspired flavors create a symphony of wholesome goodness that feels both sophisticated and approachable.

Lean protein and nutrient-rich greens combine seamlessly, promising a satisfying meal that nourishes and delights.

Eager home cooks can easily master this impressive recipe with minimal kitchen skills.

Simple techniques and readily available ingredients make this dish accessible to everyone.

You can love how quickly this elegant meal comes together, promising a delicious experience that feels both gourmet and effortless.

What Makes Monterey Chicken Spinach Bake Special

• Monterey Chicken Spinach Bake blends rich, velvety textures with classic comfort food elements, creating a satisfying one-dish meal that hugs your taste buds.
• This recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients and minimal prep, making it perfect for busy families seeking a delicious dinner solution in under an hour.
• Packed with nutritious spinach and hidden among cheesy, creamy goodness, this dish transforms a healthy vegetable into an irresistible component that even picky eaters will enjoy.
• The golden French Fried Onions add a delightful crispy topping that provides a perfect textural contrast to the creamy casserole underneath, ensuring every bite is exciting and satisfying.

What You Need for Monterey Chicken Spinach Bake

• Chicken: Lean protein that adds hearty flavor and substance to the casserole.
• Monterey Jack Cheese: Creamy, mild cheese that melts beautifully and provides rich texture.
• Sour Cream: Adds tangy creaminess and helps bind the ingredients together.

• Spaghetti: Provides the perfect base for this comforting casserole. Choose standard pasta for best results.
• Spinach: Nutrient-rich green vegetable that adds color and healthy elements to the dish.
• Garlic: Adds depth and aromatic flavor to the overall recipe.

• Cream of Chicken Soup: Creates a smooth, creamy base for the casserole. Choose low-sodium version if preferred.
• French Fried Onions: Provides a crispy, golden topping that adds crunch and additional flavor.

Steps to Cook Monterey Chicken Spinach Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Heat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (176 degrees Celsius). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil spaghetti following package instructions until it reaches al dente texture. Carefully drain the pasta and set aside in a separate bowl.

Step 3: Create the Chicken Mixture

• Cooked chicken pieces
• Cream of chicken soup
• Sour cream
• Drained spinach
• Monterey Jack cheese
• Minced garlic
• Half a can of French Fried Onions

Step 4: Blend Pasta and Mixture

Gently fold the cooked spaghetti into the chicken mixture, ensuring everything is evenly distributed and well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese over the top, then add the rest of the French Fried Onions for a crunchy topping.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes. The casserole is ready when it’s heated through, bubbling around the edges, and the onion topping turns a beautiful golden brown.

Top Tips for Monterey Chicken Spinach Bake

• Drain Spinach Thoroughly: Squeeze out excess moisture from spinach to prevent a watery casserole and ensure a rich, creamy texture.
• Cheese Melting Trick: Grate fresh Monterey Jack cheese for smoother melting and more even distribution throughout the dish.
• Crispy Onion Perfection: Add French Fried Onions during the last 15 minutes of baking to maintain maximum crunchiness and prevent burning.
• Chicken Choice Matters: Use rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken for extra flavor and tender meat that blends seamlessly with the creamy sauce.
• Seasoning Boost: Sprinkle a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or parsley before baking to enhance the overall taste profile of the casserole.

Storage Guide for Monterey Chicken Spinach Bake

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Reheat Oven Method: Preheat oven to 350F, cover casserole with foil to prevent drying, warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave Option: Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming.

Best Pairings for Monterey Chicken Spinach Bake

• Crisp Wine Companion: Pair this creamy Monterey Chicken Spinach Bake with a chilled Chardonnay, whose buttery notes complement the rich cheese and smooth sauce perfectly.
• Fresh Salad Sidekick: Serve alongside a bright arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the dish's richness and add a zesty contrast.
• Crusty Bread Enhancer: Add warm garlic bread or crusty sourdough to soak up the delicious creamy sauce and provide extra texture to the meal.
• Tangy Drink Match: Pour a cold, crisp pilsner beer that will refresh the palate and balance the casserole's creamy, hearty flavors.

Twist Ideas for Monterey Chicken Spinach Bake

• Spicy Southwest Chicken Spinach Bake: Replace Monterey Jack with pepper jack cheese, add diced green chiles, and sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Chicken Spinach Casserole: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil to create a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Chicken Spinach Comfort Bake: Substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup to make the dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
• Veggie-Loaded Chicken Spinach Skillet: Mix in additional vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini to boost nutrition and add extra texture to the casserole.

FAQs About Monterey Chicken Spinach Bake

• Can I use a different type of pasta instead of spaghetti?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta like penne, rotini, or egg noodles. Just cook them according to package instructions to ensure the right texture.

• How can I make this recipe healthier?

Swap cream of chicken soup for a low-sodium version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and add more spinach for extra nutrients. You can also use reduced-fat cheese.

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake for 50-60 minutes since it will be cold from the fridge.

• What are good side dishes to serve with this Monterey Chicken Spinach Bake?

A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread complement this casserole perfectly and add extra variety to the meal.

Monterey Chicken Spinach Bake Recipe

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4.9 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Monterey chicken spinach bake brings Mediterranean comfort to classic dinner tables with its creamy, cheesy layers. Melted mozzarella, tender chicken, and fresh spinach combine for a hearty meal that satisfies hungry families in one delightful casserole.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 4 cups chopped cooked chicken
• 1 10-ounce package frozen spinach, thawed and drained

Pasta and Cheese:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) dried spaghetti
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
• 1 6-ounce (170 grams) can French’s French Fried Onions, divided

Sauce and Seasoning:

• 1 16-ounce (454 grams) container sour cream
• 2 10.5-ounce (298 grams) cans unsalted cream of chicken soup
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350F (176C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook spaghetti in boiling water until perfectly tender, then drain and set aside for later incorporation.
3. In a spacious mixing bowl, blend shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, thoroughly drained spinach, and minced garlic until ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Fold in one portion of Monterey Jack cheese, stirring gently to create a cohesive mixture.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the chicken mixture, tossing carefully to ensure every strand is well-coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Carefully transfer the entire combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a smooth surface.
7. Generously sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese across the top of the casserole.
8. Distribute the French Fried Onions uniformly over the cheese layer for a crunchy, golden topping.
9. Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40-50 minutes, monitoring until the casserole becomes bubbling hot and the onions turn a rich, golden brown.

Notes

• Creamy and comforting casserole that combines tender chicken, pasta, and spinach in a rich, cheesy sauce.
• Perfect weeknight dinner that comes together quickly with minimal prep and uses convenient pantry staples.
• Monterey Jack cheese and French Fried Onions create a crispy, golden topping with irresistible texture and flavor.
• Easily customizable by swapping spinach with other vegetables or using different types of cheese.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, reheating in the microwave or oven.
• Make ahead by assembling the casserole and refrigerating until ready to bake, adding 10-15 minutes to cooking time.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 85mg