One‑Pan Monterey Chicken Pasta

This One-Pan Monterey Chicken Pasta is a hearty, satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and gooey cheese—all tossed with pasta in a rich, flavorful sauce. Inspired by the flavors of Monterey Chicken, this recipe simplifies everything into one skillet for a fast and easy dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made entirely in one pan, which means minimal cleanup.
• Bursting with bold flavors like BBQ sauce, bacon, and melty cheese.
• Great for busy weeknights with under 30 minutes of cook time.
• Customizable with different cheeses, proteins, or spice levels.
• Kid-friendly, comforting, and perfect for leftovers.

ingredients

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

• Bowtie or penne pasta
• Diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel)
• Chicken broth
• Shredded rotisserie chicken
• BBQ sauce
• Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
• Cooked and crumbled bacon
• Sliced green onions

directions

this recipe

1. In a large skillet, combine pasta, undrained diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has absorbed.
3. Stir in shredded chicken and cook for a few more minutes until heated through.
4. Add BBQ sauce and stir until everything is coated evenly.
5. Sprinkle cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let the cheese melt.
6. Remove from heat, sprinkle with crumbled bacon and green onions, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 15–20 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Swap Monterey Jack with pepper jack for a spicy twist.
• Use freshly cooked chicken breast or thighs if rotisserie isn’t available.
• Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
• Substitute BBQ sauce with buffalo or chipotle sauce for a flavor change.
• Use gluten-free pasta to make it celiac-friendly.

storage/reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Not recommended for freezing due to pasta texture changes.

FAQs

How spicy is this dish?

It has a mild kick from the Rotel tomatoes. For less heat, use plain diced tomatoes.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

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

Is this good for meal prep?

Absolutely—just store in individual containers for quick lunches.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and bacon, and use veggie broth. Add black beans or mushrooms for protein.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

Use your favorite! Sweet, smoky, or spicy all work well depending on your taste.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking to the skillet?

Stir occasionally while it simmers and make sure there’s enough liquid.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, use a larger skillet or Dutch oven and adjust simmering time as needed.

What should I serve with it?

It’s a full meal on its own, but a side salad or garlic bread pairs nicely.

Can I bake it for a crispy top?

Yes, after adding cheese, broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Conclusion

One-Pan Monterey Chicken Pasta is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights—quick, easy, and bursting with smoky, cheesy flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping lunches for the week, this dish delivers all the heartiness and satisfaction of a full meal with minimal cleanup.

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