Indulgent Monterey Chicken Spaghetti for Cozy Nights

why make this recipe

This dish feels warm and rich. It mixes creamy cheese, tender chicken, and bacon with spaghetti. It cooks fairly fast and fills the house with good smells. It is a great meal for a cozy night at home.

introduction

This recipe is called Indulgent Monterey Chicken Spaghetti for Cozy Nights. It makes a creamy, cheesy pasta with juicy chicken and crispy bacon. The steps are simple and the result is comforting. If you want a quick way to add flavor to the chicken, try the chicken marinade for the grill recipe for easy ideas before you cook.

how to make Indulgent Monterey Chicken Spaghetti for Cozy Nights

Follow these main ideas: cook the pasta, cook and slice the chicken, fry the bacon, make a creamy sauce, then mix all together and top with cheese. Cook everything in the same pan when you can to save time and dishes.

Ingredients :

• 8 ounces Spaghetti (Feel free to choose gluten-free pasta if needed.)
• 2 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Can swap for chicken thighs for extra juiciness.)
• 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese (Cheddar can be used for a milder flavor.)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream (Use half-and-half for a lighter texture.)
• 3 cloves Garlic (Minced; garlic powder can substitute.)
• 1 small Onion (Finely chopped; shallots are also suitable.)
• 1 cup Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth can be used for vegetarian options.)
• 6 slices Bacon (Turkey bacon is a healthier alternative.)
• 2 tablespoons Butter (Olive oil can be used as an alternative.)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Chopped; optional but recommended for garnish.)

Directions :

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side until done. Remove and let rest, then slice.
3. In the same pan, cook bacon until crisp. Remove bacon and chop. Drain most fat, leave about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
4. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the pan. Sauté onion until soft, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
5. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and bring to a low simmer. Let sauce thicken for 3–4 minutes.
6. Stir in Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth. Add cooked spaghetti, sliced chicken, and chopped bacon. Toss to coat well.
7. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with parsley. Serve hot.

how to serve Indulgent Monterey Chicken Spaghetti for Cozy Nights

Serve on warm plates. Add extra cheese on top if you like. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables pair well. Offer crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

how to store Indulgent Monterey Chicken Spaghetti for Cozy Nights

Let the dish cool to room temperature, then put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. You can freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Indulgent Monterey Chicken Spaghetti for Cozy Nights

• Cook pasta one minute less if you plan to reheat it later.
• Use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Keep some pasta water to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
• Cut bacon small so each bite has some crunch.
• Use a nonstick pan to avoid the cheese sticking.

variation (if any)

• Make it lighter: use half-and-half and skip some bacon.
• Add veggies: stir in spinach, peas, or bell peppers.
• Swap cheese: use cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: skip chicken and bacon, use mushrooms and extra veggies, and use vegetable broth.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes. Thighs add more flavor and stay juicy. Cook until they reach safe internal temperature.

Q: Can I make this ahead for guests?
A: Yes. Make it one day ahead and reheat slowly on the stove with a little broth or milk.

Q: How do I stop the sauce from splitting?
A: Keep heat low when you add the cheese and stir gently. Do not boil after adding cream and cheese.

Q: Can I use low-fat cheese or milk?
A: You can, but the sauce will be less rich. Add a bit of extra cheese or a splash of cream if needed.

Q: Is it okay to freeze this dish?
A: Yes. Freeze in a tight container. Thaw in the fridge and reheat slowly on low heat.

Print