Save Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a hearty, cheesy pasta dish that combines tender chicken, creamy Monterey Jack cheese, and perfectly cooked spaghetti in a rich, flavorful sauce. This recipe is quick to make, endlessly comforting, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual family meals.
The first time I made Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, my family couldn&t believe how quickly it came together, yet how satisfying and flavorful it tasted. It&s now a top-requested dish whenever we want something warm and cheesy on busy evenings.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti: 12 ounces, cooked al dente
- Chicken breasts: 2 boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Monterey Jack cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic cloves: 3, minced
- Chicken broth: 1 cup
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 1 tablespoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Fresh parsley: for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti:
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Onion & Garlic:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make Sauce:
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Combine & Toss:
- Add the cooked spaghetti and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to combine until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Save I love gathering the family around the table with a big skillet of this pasta. Everyone digs in, smiling, enjoying the feel-good food and easy conversation.
Flavor Boosters
Try adding sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. For those who enjoy heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper brings a lively kick.
Texture Tips
Top the finished dish with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added crunch. This little trick can turn your spaghetti into an even more irresistible comfort food.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Monterey Chicken Spaghetti with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables to round out your meal.
Save This dish brings a touch of comfort to any table with its creamy sauce and flavorful chicken. Enjoy every forkful and the easy cleanup afterwards!
Kitchen Help
- → What can I use instead of Monterey Jack cheese?
You can substitute mozzarella, cheddar, or Colby Jack for a similar creamy melt and mild flavor.
- → How do I keep the chicken tender?
Cook chicken over medium heat and avoid overcooking; bite-sized pieces cook evenly and stay juicy.
- → Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Absolutely! Sauté mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to enhance flavor and nutrition.
- → How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to restore sauce texture and creaminess.
- → What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti offers classic texture, but fettuccine or penne can also be used for variation.
- → How do I add a crunchy topping?
Scatter toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the finished dish before serving for extra crunch.