Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure with this scrumptious Monterey Chicken Spaghetti! If you’re looking for a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, smoky bacon, and a luscious blend of cheeses all tossed with spaghetti, you’ve come to the right place. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The richness of the BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with the savory elements, creating a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain it well and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. While the oil warms, season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a lovely golden-brown crust. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and shred it using two forks.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the pasta mixture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, and crumbled bacon. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated and the spaghetti is coated in the tantalizing BBQ sauce.
- Transfer the delicious mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese generously on top, creating a blanket of cheesy goodness.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and slightly golden.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and take a moment to appreciate the heavenly aroma! Sprinkle the sliced green onions on top for a fresh and vibrant finish before serving.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper Jack adds a nice kick!
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite BBQ sauce for an hour before cooking.
- This dish can be made ahead of time. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Cooking Techniques
Shredding the chicken is a key step to blending all the flavors throughout the spaghetti. Using two forks makes the task quick and easy! Additionally, don’t overlook the importance of seasoning the chicken – it enhances the overall taste of the dish immensely.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti?
No problem at all! Whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti works wonderfully with this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What if I don’t have BBQ sauce?
You can make your own simple sauce using ketchup, vinegar, and your favorite seasonings if needed. It won’t be quite the same, but it’ll still be delicious!
Conclusion
This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a fantastic choice for a satisfying meal that brings comfort and joy to the dining table. The layers of flavors, from the smokiness of bacon to the creaminess of the cheeses, create a culinary hug that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So gather your loved ones, serve up this dish, and enjoy every bite!