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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

A unique and savory fusion pasta dish featuring tender chicken, crispy bacon, and spinach tossed in a creamy barbecue-infused cheese sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Fusion
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb spaghetti
  • 2 chicken breasts cut into chunks
  • 6 slices bacon chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz, drained
The Sauce
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese shredded
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 3 cloves garlic minced

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving a splash of pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon, leaving the grease in the pan.
  3. Add chicken chunks to the bacon grease (add olive oil if needed) and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken.
  4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds.
  5. Lower heat to medium. Whisk in heavy cream and barbecue sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Reduce heat to low. Stir in Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  7. Stir in drained tomatoes and spinach. Cook for 1 minute until spinach wilts.
  8. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and half the bacon back to the skillet. Toss to coat. Top with remaining bacon and parsley to serve.

Notes

For a spicy kick, use Pepper Jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.