Creamy, cheesy, and boldly flavored, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table fast. Picture tender spaghetti coated in a silky cheese sauce, speckled with smoky bacon and seasoned grilled chicken, all topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s rich and comforting, yet not too heavy—perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal fuss.

What makes this dish stand out is its bold Southwest flair. The Monterey Jack cheese adds a gentle kick, and the balance between creaminess and savory chicken keeps each bite exciting. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak the spice levels or add veggies like bell peppers or spinach without compromising the flavor. Quick to prep, easy to clean up, and guaranteed to be devoured.

Why You’ll Love This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

If you’re a fan of comfort food with a twist, this dish checks every box. It combines the heartiness of a classic pasta dinner with the savory punch of seasoned chicken and the smooth melt of Monterey Jack. The smoky bacon adds a layer of indulgence, while the creamy base ties everything together in a bowl of serious satisfaction.

Even better? It reheats like a dream, making it a great make-ahead option. Whether you’re serving a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to often.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly here, especially if you want quick cooking and lean protein. That said, chicken thighs offer extra juiciness and richer flavor if you’re in the mood for something more indulgent. You can grill, pan-fry, or even use rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned—this dish thrives on bold flavors.

Ingredients for the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Each ingredient in this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of creaminess, savory goodness, and bold flavor.

Spaghetti: The backbone of the dish, it provides a tender and familiar base that absorbs the creamy sauce.
Boneless Chicken Breasts: Lean and easy to cook, they offer a meaty, satisfying bite and soak up the spices beautifully.
Monterey Jack Cheese: Smooth and melty with a slight kick, it gives the sauce its signature flavor.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and silkiness to the sauce.
Garlic: Fresh and pungent, it deepens the flavor of the entire dish.
Bacon: Smoky, crispy, and salty—it contrasts perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the overall flavor.
Chicken Broth: Enhances the savory profile of the sauce.
Butter: Used for sautéing and enriching the sauce.
Parsley: A fresh finishing touch that brightens each bite.

How To Make the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add sliced chicken breasts to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika or chili flakes. Cook until golden and fully cooked through.

Step 4: Crisp the Bacon

In a separate pan, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the chicken skillet. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese until fully melted and creamy.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat. Stir in crispy bacon and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Serve immediately while hot and melty, with extra cheese or parsley if desired.

How to Serve and Store Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is generous enough to feed 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes. Serve it hot and fresh from the skillet for the best creamy texture and gooey cheese pull.

To store leftovers, allow the spaghetti to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. It can also be frozen for up to one month—just be sure to thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve With Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Pair this rich and creamy pasta dish with lighter sides and fresh flavors to create a well-balanced meal.

Garlic Bread

The crunchy, buttery texture is perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.

Simple Garden Salad

A crisp salad with vinaigrette balances the richness with bright acidity.

Steamed Broccoli

Adds a pop of green and keeps things fresh and healthy.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their caramelized edges and slight bitterness complement the creamy pasta beautifully.

Caesar Salad

Creamy meets creamy, but the crunch of romaine and croutons keeps it from feeling too heavy.

Grilled Zucchini

Lightly charred and seasoned, it brings smoky flavor without overpowering the main dish.

Lemon Asparagus

Zesty and vibrant, this adds a citrusy note that lifts the whole plate.

Iced Tea or Lemonade

A refreshing drink rounds out the meal and keeps things easygoing.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, you’re in for a treat with these other easy and flavor-packed pasta dishes from NoraNosh:

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe for a creamy, romantic twist.
One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for a smoky, satisfying one-pan meal.
Buffalo Chicken Lasagna if you love bold, cheesy spice.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for serious comfort food cravings.
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta when you’re craving seafood and silky sauce.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use spicy chicken or keep it classic? Did you try a veggie version?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Author: Nora
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Get ready to cozy up to the ultimate comfort dish: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti. Creamy, smoky, and loaded with bold flavor, this easy dinner idea combines juicy chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, and crispy bacon tossed with tender spaghetti. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a quick dinner recipe that the whole family will love. Whether you’re planning your next comfort food night or searching for new dinner ideas, this flavorful and hearty dish is a delicious go-to!

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.

3. Add sliced chicken breasts to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika or chili flakes. Cook until golden and fully cooked through.

4. In a separate pan, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.

5. Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the chicken skillet. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese until fully melted and creamy.

6. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat. Stir in crispy bacon and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top.

7. Serve immediately while hot and melty, with extra cheese or parsley if desired.