Name: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti: A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Pasta Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486348H21M33S
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces spaghetti, cooked al dente; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; ½ cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti: A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Pasta Dish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food that brings together all your favorite flavors in one dish. The creamy sauce made with chicken broth and heavy cream is perfectly balanced with the mild, melty Monterey Jack cheese, while the seasoned chicken adds protein and texture. The spaghetti soaks up all the rich flavors, making every bite irresistible. It’s quick, easy, and will quickly become a family favorite!

Ingredients

12 ounces spaghetti, cooked al dente
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black 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.
Prepare the Sauce: 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 the 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 the Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked spaghetti and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to combine until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
Add the 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 and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrition, sauté vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers and stir them into the sauce before adding the pasta.
Spicy Option: If you enjoy a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the sauce for added heat.
Crispy Topping: For a crunchy texture, top the dish with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of broth or cream to the casserole and warm on the stove over low heat until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute Monterey Jack with cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend of cheese for a different flavor.

2. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will add a bit more flavor and moisture to the dish.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the oven, adding a little extra cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

4. How do I prevent the pasta from getting too dry when reheating?

To prevent dryness, always add a little extra broth or cream when reheating to keep the sauce creamy and the pasta moist.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in the oven or on the stove, adding extra cream or broth if necessary.

6. Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes! You can swap in whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or gluten-free version of this dish.

7. Can I add more spices to this dish?

Of course! Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your tastes. You can add garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

8. Can I skip the heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free cream alternative, though the sauce will be a bit thinner.

9. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If your sauce is too thin, simmer it a little longer to reduce and thicken, or stir in a little cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) to thicken it up.

10. What’s a good side dish to serve with Monterey Chicken Spaghetti?

Serve it with a side of garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is the perfect comfort food, packed with cheesy, creamy goodness that’s sure to please the whole family. This easy-to-make dish is great for busy weeknights, and it’s flexible enough to be customized with extra veggies or a little heat. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or a dish for a casual family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a staple. Try it out today and enjoy a comforting meal in just 25 minutes!