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Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti


  • Author: Kevin
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This easy Monterey Chicken Spaghetti recipe offers a comforting and flavorful dinner with tender shredded chicken, smoky turkey bacon, and creamy plant-based cheese. Combining simple ingredients like spaghetti, green chilies, and diced tomatoes (natural), it creates a rich, satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or special gatherings. The recipe is quick to make, versatile, and includes tips for adjustments and serving suggestions to customize this hearty, plant-based-friendly pasta dish.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon

Pasta

  • 8 ounces spaghetti (or gluten-free spaghetti)

Dairy Alternatives

  • 1 cup plant-based cheese (shredded)

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons green chilies (natural)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Sauces

  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Thickening

  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Bacon: Cook the chicken breasts in boiling water until tender, about 15 minutes. Remove and shred finely using forks. In a separate pan, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside, ensuring it is not overcooked.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Combine Ingredients: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes (natural), green chilies (natural), and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Then, fold in the shredded chicken and chopped turkey bacon, mixing thoroughly.
  4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and gradually add the plant-based cheese while stirring continuously until it melts and forms a smooth sauce. Sprinkle in the natural gelling agent and stir well to thicken the sauce, achieving a creamy consistency.
  5. Mix Pasta and Serve: Combine the cooked spaghetti with the creamy sauce mixture, tossing gently to coat every strand. Warm the mixture over low heat until heated through. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh pasta if possible for a more tender texture and faster cooking time.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; keep it al dente to avoid mushiness after mixing with sauce.
  • Shred chicken finely to ensure balanced bites of protein and sauce.
  • Adjust creaminess by adding more plant-based cheese or chicken broth as desired.
  • Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving to deepen the flavors.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, creamy pasta, gluten-free spaghetti, easy dinner, comfort food