Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

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Craving a comforting pasta dish with a savory twist? Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is your answer. This dish blends tender chicken, spaghetti noodles, and creamy Monterey Jack cheese into one irresistible dinner option. It’s a weeknight winner that doesn’t compromise on flavor or heartiness.

With its golden, cheesy top and deeply satisfying taste, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti manages to feel both cozy and elevated. The use of herbs and garlic brings depth, while a bit of heat adds a gentle kick. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a dinner night, this recipe earns its place at the table.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To prepare Monterey Chicken Spaghetti efficiently, you’ll need:

• Large pot: For boiling the spaghetti evenly and quickly.
• Deep skillet or sauté pan: Helps in searing the chicken and building flavor from the start.
• Baking dish: Crucial for layering and baking the pasta until bubbly and golden.
• Colander: To drain pasta properly and prevent sogginess.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: For precise slicing of chicken and herbs.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Useful for stirring and folding ingredients without damaging nonstick cookware.

Having the right tools at hand will streamline the process, ensure even cooking, and help keep the final dish textured just right.

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Ingredients for the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Each ingredient plays a key role in building the savory, creamy flavor profile of this dish:

• Spaghetti noodles: The foundational base, offering a neutral canvas that soaks up all the sauce and seasoning.
• Boneless chicken breast: Lean, protein-rich, and sears beautifully for a golden exterior.
• Monterey Jack cheese: Mild, melty, and creamy—perfect for creating a gooey, cohesive texture.
• Garlic cloves: Adds sharp depth and aroma, boosting overall flavor.
• Yellow onion: Brings subtle sweetness and complexity when sautéed.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Delivers a gentle heat to contrast the creamy elements.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning for balance.
• Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken and sautéing veggies, adding richness.
• Chicken broth: Provides moisture and intensifies the savory base.
• Heavy cream: Enhances the richness and creaminess of the sauce.
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the finished dish and adds color.

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How To Make the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil spaghetti in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a deep skillet, heat olive oil and sear seasoned chicken breast slices until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

Using the same pan, sauté chopped onion and garlic until fragrant and softened. Add crushed red pepper flakes, then pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Let it simmer gently.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Stir in shredded Monterey Jack cheese gradually until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Toss the cooked pasta and seared chicken into the sauce, mixing to coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with extra cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

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Serving and Storing Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

This dish is best served hot right out of the oven, with the cheese still gooey and the flavors at their peak. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but it can easily be toned down or dialed up depending on your taste.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh?

Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works well in this dish. Just shred it and stir into the sauce before baking.

What can I substitute for Monterey Jack cheese?

Mozzarella or a blend of mozzarella and mild cheddar can work as a substitute, although Monterey Jack gives the creamiest finish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

As written, no. But you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free spaghetti and ensuring your broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes and bake as directed.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrients and texture.

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Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If Monterey Chicken Spaghetti hits the spot, you might also enjoy these flavorful alternatives:

The Buffalo Chicken Lasagna layers spicy chicken with creamy cheese in a bold pasta twist. Or check out the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, where Cajun spices meet rich, velvety sauce.

For a one-skillet solution, the One Skillet Smoky Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup. Another easy favorite is the Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, a creamy dish full of garlic, parmesan, and sun-dried tomato goodness.

You can also explore the Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti if you’re in the mood for a hands-off, slow-cooked option that simmers to perfection.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you give it a go, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you tweak the spice? Did you add veggies? Drop a comment below. I’m always curious how others customize their Monterey Chicken Spaghetti.

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