Description
This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti recipe is a cheesy, creamy, Southwestern twist on a classic comfort dish. Featuring juicy chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, garlic, and chili, this one-pot meal is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. A must-try for fans of chicken pasta recipes!
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts or thighs, diced
8 oz spaghetti
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, chopped
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Instructions
1. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
5. Gradually add Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until smooth and melted.
6. Cook spaghetti in a separate pot until al dente. Reserve some pasta water and drain.
7. Add chicken and spaghetti to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding pasta water as needed.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve immediately.
Notes
Freshly grated Monterey Jack melts more smoothly than pre-shredded.
Reserve some pasta water—it helps adjust sauce consistency.
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat and a creamy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 115mg