Description
Creamy Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a rich, cheesy, and comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken and a luscious Monterey Jack cheese sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this easy recipe is a family favorite.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- Spaghetti
- Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- Cream cheese
- Heavy cream
- Chicken broth
- Garlic, minced
- Onion, finely chopped
- Butter
- Flour
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken – If not already cooked, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden and fully cooked. Shred or dice the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics – In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened.
- Make the Roux – Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste. Cook for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Create the Creamy Sauce – Slowly whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Melt the Cheese – Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream cheese and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the Sauce – Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Everything – Add the shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
- Serve and Garnish – Transfer to serving plates, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Add Vegetables – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Swap the Cheese – Use a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for a unique flavor twist.
- Make it Spicy – Add diced jalapeños or increase the red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Use Different Pasta – Try fettuccine, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a different texture.
- Protein Options – Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a meatless version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chicken spaghetti, creamy pasta, Monterey Jack cheese, easy dinner, comfort food