Description

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy pasta dinner made with tender seasoned chicken, spaghetti, Monterey Jack cheese, onion, garlic, and a rich savory sauce. This easy comfort food recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, and cozy meals at home.

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

1/2 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon butter

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

3. Season the chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

4. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through.

5. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

6. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

7. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

8. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.

9. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

10. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked spaghetti. Toss until the pasta and chicken are fully coated in the sauce.

11. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the pasta mixture.

12. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and gooey.

13. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

Shred your own Monterey Jack cheese for the smoothest melt.

Do not overcook the spaghetti, since it will continue to absorb sauce after mixing.

Add a splash of extra chicken broth or cream when reheating leftovers to keep the sauce creamy.

You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker shortcut version.

For a casserole-style finish, transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil until bubbly.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American