Name: Monterey Chicken Spaghetti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 400g spaghetti; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 1 can Rotel tomatoes (10 oz), undrained; 6 slices bacon, diced; 115g cream cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

If comfort food had a Tex-Mex cousin, Monterey Chicken Spaghetti would be its cheesy, zesty, smoky star. Packed with tender chicken, melty Monterey Jack cheese, and a southwestern kick from Rotel tomatoes and crispy bacon, this pasta dish is the definition of weeknight satisfaction. It wraps every bite in creamy richness while sneaking in enough heat and bold flavor to keep things interesting.

This isn’t your average spaghetti night. It’s a warm hug with a little sass—perfect for when you want comfort but don’t want to play it safe. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping your lunches for the week, this dish delivers hearty helpings with plenty of Texan flair.

Why You’ll Love This Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

This is the kind of recipe that checks all the boxes: easy to make, full of flavor, and crowd-pleasing every time. Monterey Jack cheese creates that perfect pull, while the combination of bacon, garlic, and diced tomatoes adds layers of savory depth. It’s rich, cheesy, and spiced just enough to keep you coming back for another forkful.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

You can use any cooked chicken you have on hand: rotisserie, leftover grilled breasts, or even poached thighs. For the best texture and flavor, shredded or diced cooked chicken breast works beautifully. It soaks up the sauce and plays well with the bacon and cheese, creating that signature Monterey Chicken profile.

Ingredients for the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

This dish comes together with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, creating a layered, Tex-Mex inspired pasta bake that satisfies with every bite.

Spaghetti
Cooked Chicken
Monterey Jack Cheese
Rotel Tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
Bacon
Cream Cheese
Garlic
Onion
Chicken Broth
Butter
Salt & Pepper

How To Make the Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil spaghetti until just al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Make the Flavor Base

In a large skillet, cook diced bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving a bit of the drippings. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in the bacon fat until soft and aromatic.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

Add butter, cream cheese, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir until smooth and creamy. Then fold in the Rotel tomatoes for that punch of flavor.

Step 4: Combine and Layer

Stir in the shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti. Mix thoroughly so the sauce coats everything. Add half of the shredded Monterey Jack and stir to melt.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer everything to a greased baking dish. Top with the rest of the cheese and sprinkle the cooked bacon over the top. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, until bubbly and golden on the edges.

Serving and Storing Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

This casserole feeds about 6 to 8 people generously, making it ideal for families or potluck-style dinners. Serve it straight from the oven for the full melty, savory experience. Leftovers are just as delicious the next day—the flavors deepen and the texture stays wonderfully creamy.

To store, let the dish cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of broth or milk to bring back that luscious texture.

What to Serve With Monterey Chicken Spaghetti?

Garlic Bread with Cheese

The garlicky crunch balances the creamy pasta beautifully and adds another cheesy touch.

Simple Green Salad

A fresh, crisp salad with a zesty vinaigrette brightens up the plate and cuts through the richness.

Roasted Asparagus

Earthy, slightly charred asparagus adds freshness and visual appeal to the meal.

Mexican Street Corn

Amp up the Tex-Mex theme with creamy, cotija-covered elote either on the cob or off.

Classic Caprese Salad

For something lighter and a bit unexpected, the juicy tomatoes and mozzarella give a refreshing contrast.

Sauteed Zucchini and Squash

A fast stovetop veggie side that pairs well with the buttery pasta sauce.

Pickled Jalapeños

Add some zing and heat on the side for those who love extra spice.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you’re into creamy chicken pasta with bold flavor, you might also fall in love with these other favorites:

• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a vibrant, veggie-packed twist.
• Tuscan Chicken Pasta if you love garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and a silky sauce.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta when you’re craving extra indulgence.
• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for a spicy change of pace.
• Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce for a protein-rich spin on the classic.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s easy to find when you’re craving something cozy and cheesy.

And tell me how you made it your own. Did you add extra chilies or go all out with smoked paprika? Maybe even topped it with crushed tortilla chips for crunch?

I love hearing your tweaks and kitchen secrets. Share your thoughts below so we can all enjoy better dinners, together.

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