Go Back
+ servings
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Creamy Monterey Chicken Spaghetti for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

A creamy and comforting Monterey Chicken Spaghetti that's perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz spaghetti Feel free to use any pasta you prefer!
For the Chicken
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts You can swap for chicken thighs for added richness.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup chicken broth Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Butter can be used as a delicious alternative.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream Consider using half-and-half for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese Mozzarella can serve as a great substitute.
For the Veggies
  • 1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped Kale can easily be used as a substitute.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Regular diced tomatoes work too.
  • 1 small onion, diced Both yellow and white onions are suitable.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Garlic powder can be an alternative.
For Seasoning and Garnish
  • salt and pepper to taste Essential seasonings for extra flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Can be omitted for dairy-free options.
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish Brings a fresh touch and color.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, pour olive oil and let it heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then place in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove chicken, let rest, and slice.
  3. Using the same skillet, add onions and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until onions become translucent and fragrant.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 3 minutes. Then, reduce heat and add heavy cream and shredded Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until cheese melts.
  5. Next, stir in cherry tomatoes and spinach. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until spinach wilts and tomatoes soften.
  6. Add sliced chicken and cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until pasta is well-coated with sauce.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Plate the spaghetti, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired, and garnish with parsley or cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best practices, check chicken temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F. Aim for al dente spaghetti and consider using fresh vegetables for flavor.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!