Best Monterey Chicken Spaghetti

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a cheesy, hearty twist on traditional pasta dishes, packed with tender chicken, and a creamy sauce laced with Monterey Jack cheese. This comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when I want a satisfying bake that the whole family will love. It’s easy to make, and the leftovers (if there are any) are just as delicious the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines all the best flavors in one casserole-style dish: creamy pasta, juicy chicken, and loads of melted cheese. It has that classic Southern comfort feel but with a unique twist from the Monterey Jack cheese and bacon. I can throw it together with simple pantry staples and a rotisserie chicken, which saves me time. It’s also great for meal prep or potlucks, since it reheats beautifully.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Spaghetti

• Cooked chicken, shredded or chopped

• Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

• Cream cheese

• Sour cream

• Chicken broth

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Cooked bacon, crumbled

• Diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), drained

• Green onions, sliced

• Salt and pepper to taste

directions

1. I begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spraying a large baking dish with nonstick spray.

2. I cook the spaghetti in salted water until al dente, then drain and set it aside.

3. In a large saucepan, I combine cream cheese, sour cream, and chicken broth over medium heat, stirring until smooth.

4. I add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese until it’s melted and creamy.

5. I mix in the cooked chicken, drained tomatoes with green chilies, and half of the crumbled bacon.

6. I add the cooked spaghetti to the mixture, tossing everything together until the pasta is fully coated.

7. I pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with more Monterey Jack cheese and the remaining bacon.

8. I bake uncovered for about 25–30 minutes until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.

9. Once out of the oven, I garnish with green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 generous servings. It takes roughly 15 minutes to prep, and about 30 minutes to bake, so I have it on the table in under an hour. It’s a full meal on its own, but I sometimes serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Variations

Sometimes I switch out the spaghetti for other types of pasta like penne or rotini. If I want a spicier version, I use pepper jack cheese and add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. I’ve also made it with leftover grilled chicken for a smokier flavor, or added sautéed bell peppers for extra veggies.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I microwave individual portions or bake in a covered dish at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through. If it seems a little dry, I stir in a splash of chicken broth or milk before reheating to bring back the creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, I usually use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken—it saves a lot of time and still tastes great.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. I assemble the entire dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When I’m ready to bake, I just bring it to room temperature and pop it in the oven.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Monterey Jack is my go-to because it melts beautifully and has a mild, creamy flavor. But I’ve also tried it with a mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar for extra depth.

Can I freeze Monterey Chicken Spaghetti?

Yes, I freeze it after assembling but before baking. I wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When I’m ready to use it, I thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

To make it a bit lighter, I use reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream, and cut back a bit on the cheese and bacon. It’s still rich and flavorful, just a little easier on the calories.

Conclusion

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is everything I love about comfort food—warm, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s simple to prepare, endlessly customizable, and always a hit around the table. Whether I’m making it for a casual dinner or prepping for leftovers, this dish delivers every time.