If you’re craving a dish that blends comforting pasta with savory, tender chicken in a burst of bold flavors, this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is the one to try right away. It’s a perfect balance of smoky spices, garlic-infused richness, and buttery silkiness all tossed with spaghetti for a simple yet memorable meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction to the table like no other.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential. Each one adds a unique layer of flavor, texture, and color, creating a harmonious dish that feels both fresh and indulgent.
- 12 oz spaghetti: The star base that soaks up all the savory sauce and spices perfectly.
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Tender, juicy protein that carries the smoky seasoning beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken and sautéing the garlic, adding a lovely richness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor that’s irresistible.
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Brings a warm, smoky depth that defines the dish’s character.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic notes without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors and seasons the chicken perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and sharpness.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates a silky sauce when combined with pasta water and garlic oil.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: For a pop of green color and a fresh, herby finish.
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water: A secret trick for making a light, luscious sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti.
How to Make Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Season and Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces so each forkful has the perfect balance of tender meat and pasta. Pat the pieces dry to ensure they sear nicely instead of steaming. Then, season them liberally with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to infuse that irresistible smoky and savory flavor that is signature to this Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the spaghetti until just al dente—meaning it still has a slight bite. This is important because the pasta will continue to cook slightly once mixed with the sauce later. Don’t forget to save half a cup of the pasta water before draining, as it turns out to be the magic ingredient for the sauce!
Step 3: Sear the Chicken to Perfection
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your seasoned chicken pieces. Sear them without crowding the pan for about 6-8 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. This step locks in the juices and builds a delicious caramelized crust that adds texture and depth to the dish.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
After removing the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add a bit more olive oil along with the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté just until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes; this step releases the potent aroma and flavor that start the sauce with a beautiful garlic punch.
Step 5: Make the Sauce and Combine
Add the cooked spaghetti right into the garlic oil and toss well. Then stir in butter and the reserved pasta water gradually—this creates a glossy, silky sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. Finally, return the golden chicken to the skillet and toss everything together. This ensures every bite bursts with flavor and that wonderful creamy texture.
Step 6: Garnish and Final Toss
Finish your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe by sprinkling fresh parsley over the top. The parsley adds a fresh color contrast and a mild herbal note that brightens the dish beautifully. Give everything one last gentle toss to distribute those fresh herbs.
How to Serve Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
The simplest garnishes can elevate your dish to restaurant-quality. Fresh chopped parsley adds vibrancy, but you can also try a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a few red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Each garnish brings something special that complements the smoky, garlicky base.
Side Dishes
This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. A side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. These sides add refreshing or crunchy textures that balance the creamy pasta perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your pasta piled high on large plates with extra parsley sprinkled on top for visual appeal. For a cozy family-style meal, keep the skillet on the table so everyone can serve themselves. You can even use colorful bowls to contrast the pasta’s warm golden hues and make your meal feel inviting and homey.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld nicely overnight, so leftovers taste even better the next day!
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers wrapped tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags. For best texture, freeze in single portions and consume within 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to keep everything silky and avoid drying out the chicken or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just as well, though thighs tend to be a bit more tender and juicy. Just be careful not to overcook breasts as they dry out quicker.
Is smoked paprika necessary?
Smoked paprika adds a unique depth and smoky flavor crucial to the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe’s signature taste. If unavailable, you can substitute with regular paprika plus a tiny dash of liquid smoke for a similar effect.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Definitely. Swap the spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients, like spices, are gluten-free. The technique and flavor remain amazing.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic or sprinkle on top before serving. You can also include a diced jalapeño in the garlic step for some fresh heat.
What’s the best way to store leftovers for quality?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge within two hours of cooking. Release excess steam before sealing to avoid sogginess and maintain texture.
Final Thoughts
This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity and bold flavor effortlessly. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make over and over because it brings comfort, joy, and that satisfying smoky garlic flavor every time. Grab your ingredients and get cooking—your future self will thank you!
Print
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a flavorful and satisfying skillet pasta dish featuring tender chicken thighs or breasts seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic spices, tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti in a buttery garlic sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner that combines savory chicken with a light, luscious sauce and fresh parsley for a touch of brightness.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Sauce and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry with paper towels. Season evenly with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to infuse the meat with smoky and savory flavors.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water to help create the sauce later.
- Sear Chicken: Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and sear them for 6 to 8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Lower the heat to medium and add additional olive oil to the same skillet if needed. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Create Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with garlic oil. Stir in the butter and reserved pasta water to create a light, silky sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together thoroughly so the chicken is evenly coated with the buttery garlic sauce and pasta.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh, herbaceous finish. Serve the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti warm.
Notes
- Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for more juicy and flavorful results; chicken breasts work well, too.
- Reserve some pasta water when draining the spaghetti to help emulsify the sauce perfectly.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and smoked paprika, depending on your preference.
- For a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half when stirring in the butter.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
