Name: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; Spaghetti pasta; Olive oil; Onion, diced; Bell peppers (red and green), sliced; Garlic, minced; Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); Cream cheese; Cheddar cheese, shredded; Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; Chicken broth; Seasonings: salt, pepper, chili powder, paprika

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish packed with tender chicken, bell peppers, and tomatoes. It’s a comforting one-pan meal that blends rich flavors with a touch of spice, making it perfect for a hearty family dinner or a casual weeknight treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s an easy way to get a complete meal on the table without a lot of fuss. The combination of melted cheese, tender chicken, and flavorful veggies creates a dish that feels indulgent yet balanced. Plus, it’s versatile—I can adjust the spice level or swap in different veggies to keep it fresh every time I make it.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Spaghetti pasta
Olive oil
Onion, diced
Bell peppers (red and green), sliced
Garlic, minced
Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
Cream cheese
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
Chicken broth
Seasonings (salt, pepper, chili powder, paprika)

directions

Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened.
Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and seasonings to the skillet. Stir and let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
Stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth, then add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and mix well so the pasta is fully coated in the cheesy sauce.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat to let the flavors meld before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people.
Preparation takes around 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes, making the total time about 40 minutes.

Variations

I like to customize this recipe by swapping bell peppers for mushrooms or zucchini if I want a different vegetable twist. For a spicier kick, I sometimes add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Using rotisserie chicken can also speed up the cooking process.

storage/reheating

I store leftover Monterey Chicken Spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of milk or broth and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works great, I’ve also used penne or rotini to hold onto the cheesy sauce nicely.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, I’ve frozen leftovers before. I recommend freezing in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, I substitute cream cheese and shredded cheeses with dairy-free alternatives and use olive oil or dairy-free butter instead of regular cheese.

How do I make it spicier?

I add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños when cooking the vegetables to bring more heat.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce components ahead and combine everything just before serving for a quick meal.

Conclusion

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is one of those recipes I turn to when I want something comforting, cheesy, and full of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. Its versatility and ease make it a staple in my rotation, and I’m sure it will be in yours too after just one bite.