why make this recipe
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together creamy flavors and tender chicken. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of spaghetti, chicken, and two types of cheese creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, making it both cost-effective and practical.
how to make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and Italian seasoning, cooking for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and mix well.
- Stir in the Monterey Jack cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
how to serve Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is best served warm, straight from the skillet. You can present it in individual plates or serve it family-style in a large bowl. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a nice touch and color. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the spaghetti in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help restore its creamy texture. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
tips to make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
- To save time, use rotisserie chicken for the shredded chicken.
- If you want a little extra flavor, add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the skillet when you add the chicken.
- You can adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference; feel free to add more if you’re a cheese lover!
variation
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. You can also substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving.
2. Is there a gluten-free option for the spaghetti?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free spaghetti or other pasta alternatives, like zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
3. What can I serve with Monterey Chicken Spaghetti?
This dish goes well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A delicious and comforting dish featuring spaghetti, chicken, and two types of cheese, perfect for weeknights and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and Italian seasoning, cooking for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and mix well.
- Stir in the Monterey Jack cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or spinach. Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, chicken pasta, comfort food, weeknight dinner, cheesy pasta
