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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti: Quick Comfort Food Delight

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a zesty and cheesy one-pan dinner that's quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Spaghetti Can substitute with any favorite pasta like penne or fusilli.
For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Or swap with turkey breast or tofu for a lighter touch.
  • 1 tsp Salt Essential to enhance all flavors in the dish.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adds a hint of mild heat.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Brings aromatic depth to the chicken.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Complements the garlic and amplifies the savory notes.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Aids in cooking and brings out flavors when searing.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Salsa Feel free to use homemade salsa for a personal twist.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese Melts beautifully for a creamy topping.
  • 1/2 cup Bacon Provides smokiness and crunch; use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
  • 2 tbsp Green Onions Offers fresh notes and a mild crunch for garnish.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season the chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the spices to penetrate.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove and let rest.
  4. In the same skillet, add the salsa over medium heat. Simmer for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
  5. Slice the resting chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the skillet with the simmering salsa, stirring gently to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  6. Lower the heat and add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet. Toss gently for a couple of minutes until well-coated with the salsa.
  7. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the mixture and cover the skillet. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
  8. Remove the lid and top with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions. Serve hot from the skillet.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Freeze portions for longer storage, up to three months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.

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