Go Back
+ servings
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Creamy Monterey Chicken Spaghetti for Cozy Family Nights

This creamy Monterey Chicken Spaghetti brings family together in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 540

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz spaghetti gluten-free pasta can be used
For the Chicken
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts thighs can be used for richer flavor
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese can substitute with cheddar or mozzarella
  • 1 cup heavy cream replace with half-and-half or non-dairy cream for lighter options
  • 2 cups chicken broth vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian option
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium yellow onion shallots can be used for milder taste
  • 2 cloves garlic can use garlic powder in pinch
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp paprika smoked paprika can enhance flavor
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning omit or substitute with fresh herbs if preferred
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper
For the Finishing Touch
  • 2 tbsp olive oil can swap for vegetable or canola oil
  • 2 tbsp butter margarine or dairy-free butter can serve as substitute
  • to taste fresh parsley can be omitted or swapped for basil

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • measuring cups
  • Measuring Spoons

Method
 

Step by Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, carefully drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the cubed chicken breasts with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken.
  5. Return the cooked spaghetti and chicken to the skillet, gently tossing to coat everything in the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top and cover with a lid for 2-3 minutes off the heat to allow the cheese to melt.
  7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Check chicken temperature reaches 165°F. Customize veggies as per preference. Add cayenne or red pepper flakes for extra spice.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!