Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a cheesy, comforting casserole-style dish that blends tender chicken, spaghetti, and a creamy, flavorful sauce with a hint of smokiness. Topped with melty Monterey Jack cheese and crispy bacon, it’s an easy weeknight dinner that’s family-friendly and irresistibly delicious.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

spaghetti noodlescooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)olive oilyellow onion (diced)garlic (minced)Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies)cream of chicken soupMonterey Jack cheese (shredded)bacon (cooked and crumbled)milk or chicken brothsaltblack pepperparsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until soft, then add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Stir in Rotel tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, and milk or chicken broth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Add shredded chicken and half of the Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce mixture and toss until evenly coated.

Transfer everything to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese and crumbled bacon.

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use cooked rotisserie chicken for extra convenience.

Substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor base.

Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.

Top with crushed Ritz crackers or French-fried onions for added crunch.

Use pepper jack for a spicier kick.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, warm in the microwave or bake covered at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.Add a splash of milk or broth if the pasta dries out.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rotini, or linguine work well too.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely—assemble ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild kick from the Rotel, but you can use mild or spicy versions based on your preference.

Can I freeze Monterey Chicken Spaghetti?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

What kind of cheese can I use instead of Monterey Jack?

Cheddar, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend all work well.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, broccoli, peas, or spinach make great additions.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free spaghetti and a gluten-free condensed soup.

Can I cook the chicken with the pasta?

It’s best to use pre-cooked chicken to control texture and flavor.

What sides go well with this?

A green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables pair nicely.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish.

Conclusion

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this casserole-style dish delivers comfort with every bite. It’s the perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and hearty satisfaction.