Monterey Chicken Spaghetti Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta and Proteins

01 - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
02 - 8 ounces spaghetti

→ Dairy

03 - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
04 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 1 cup heavy cream

→ Aromatics and Seasonings

06 - 1/2 cup diced onions
07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional

→ Liquids and Fats

12 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
13 - 1 tablespoon butter
14 - 1/2 cup chicken broth

→ Fresh Herbs

15 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

# Instructions:

01 - Boil spaghetti in a large pot of salted water according to package directions. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Sear chicken for 6 to 7 minutes per side, ensuring internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). Transfer cooked chicken to a cutting board, slice into strips, and reserve.
03 - In the same skillet, melt butter. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
04 - Add chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
05 - Lower heat to low, then add shredded Monterey Jack cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until both cheeses are fully melted and sauce is smooth.
06 - Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and gently toss to evenly coat pasta with the creamy sauce.
07 - Arrange sliced chicken on top of the pasta. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve hot.

# Notes:

01 - Allow the cheese sauce to fully melt and blend before adding the pasta for a silky texture.
02 - Reserve a small amount of pasta cooking water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.