Description
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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- 1/2 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
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add the cooked spaghetti and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to combine until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.
- 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.
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the dish.
- If you enjoy a spicy kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
- For a crunchier texture, top the dish with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner