Monterey Chicken Spаghetti is a tasty dish that brings together chicken , cheese , and pasta . It feels like two comfort foods in one . You get grilled chicken slathered in bbq sauce , melty cheese , and a bed of spaghetti all mixed in a pan . It’s warm , filling and easy to share with friends or fam .
In our busy lives comfort food matters because it not only fills our belly but reminds us of home and warmth . On rainy days or at big family dinners , dishes like Monterey Chicken Spаghetti pull people close at the dinner table .
This article shows you how to make Monterey Chicken Spаghetti step by step and gives ideas to tweak it your way . From the list of stuff you need to cooking tips , we got you covered . Mix in veggies you like or switch cheeses to make it yours .
What is Monterey Chicken Spаghetti?
Monterey Chicken Spаghetti is a dish that joins two faves : grilled chicken topped with bbq sauce and melted cheese meets spaghetti . It started from classic Monterey Chicken - simple grilled chicken breast with sauce and melty cheese - but when it hugs pasta it becomes hearty and fun . Every bite brings juicy chicken , creamy cheese , and noodles you can’t stop eating .
Merging grilled chicken with pasta may sound weird at first , but it turns out awesome . The tender chicken works with creamy cheese and al dente noodles for a taste you wont forget .
Common Ingredients
It uses a few main parts :
- Chicken breasts : Star of the plate , usually grilled or baked till no pink shows .
- Spаghetti : Al dente pasta gives a chewy base .
- Cheese : Mix of Cheddar and Monterey Jack brings cream and flavor .
- Vegetables : Bell peppers and onions add crunch and a bit of sweetness .
- Seasonings : Italian herbs , garlic , salt and pepper round out the taste .
You also get protein from chicken , fiber from veggies , and carbs from pasta . If you want it healthier , swap to whole wheat spаghetti or low fat cheese without losing too much taste .
The Flavor Profile of Monterey Chicken Spаghetti
This dish has juicy grilled chicken that goes great with gooey cheese , and the noodles give a nice bite . Barbecue sauce adds a sweet smoky kick , while the peppers and onions bring fresh crunch . Together it’s savory , slightly sweet , and very comforting .
Good sides are a crisp salad with light dressing or garlic toast to mop up extra sauce . A cold iced tea or white wine can round out the meal .
Ingredients for Monterey Chicken Spаghetti
Main Ingredients
- Chicken breasts : 4 boneless , skinless chicken breasts , grilled or baked .
- Spаghetti : 12 oz of spаghetti , cooked al dente .
- Cheese : 1 cup shredded Cheddar + 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack .
- Vegetables : 1 bell pepper , any color ; 1 medium onion , chopped .
- Seasonings : 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning ; 2 cloves minced garlic ; salt & pepper to taste .
Optional Add-ins
You can try mushrooms , spinach , or zucchini for more veggies . If you want extra protein , add diced ham or cooked bacon . Swap in mozzarella or pepper jack cheese to change the flavor . These tweaks can make it fun every time you cook it .
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 colander
- 1 skillet
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 baking dish
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped (about 5-6 slices)
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- ½ cup diced green onions
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
- While the spaghetti cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken in the skillet for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it into strips.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, barbecue sauce, half of the Monterey Jack cheese, and the chopped bacon. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and spread the spaghetti mixture evenly in the dish.
- Place the sliced chicken on top of the spaghetti mixture. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese and diced green onions over the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once finished, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
