One-Pan Monterey Chicken Pasta Recipe

Looking for a weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor, easy on cleanup, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters? Let me introduce you to One-Pan Monterey Chicken Pasta, your new go-to meal for busy evenings or cozy Saturday suppers alike. This hearty dish brings together juicy chunks of seasoned chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and a dreamy blanket of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses, all mingling together in a satisfying one-pan masterpiece. It’s the sort of recipe that earns a spot in your regular dinner rotation after just one bite!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts of this One-Pan Monterey Chicken Pasta is how approachable the ingredient list is. Each element plays a special part in building layers of flavor, adding pops of color, or creating that crave-worthy cheesy texture.

• Chicken breasts: Lean, protein-packed, and perfect for soaking up all the bold flavors in the dish.
• Pasta (penne or rotini): Choose a sturdy shape to hold the sauce and cheese—penne and rotini work like a charm.
• Barbecue sauce: Opt for your favorite brand; it brings smokiness, tang, and a little sweetness to every bite.
• Chicken broth: Helps the pasta cook to perfection while infusing extra flavor throughout.
• Monterey Jack cheese: Melty and mild, it’s the signature cheese in the namesake dish.
• Cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and an appealing golden hue when sprinkled on top.
• Bacon: For a salty, crispy finish that makes every forkful irresistible.
• Green onions: Sprinkle on for a fresh, colorful bite at the end.
• Olive oil: Start everything off on the right note by searing the chicken to golden, juicy perfection.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the whole dish to taste.

How to Make One-Pan Monterey Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Let them sizzle away until they’re golden brown on the outside and nearly cooked through. This step locks in flavor and keeps the chicken juicy for the rest of the recipe.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Sauce Together

Add your uncooked pasta straight to the pan with the chicken (no need to boil separately—hooray for fewer dishes!). Pour in the chicken broth and barbecue sauce, giving everything a gentle stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat slightly and cover. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the sauce, which usually takes about 12–14 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Cheeses

Once the pasta is tender and the pan smells incredible, it’s time to sprinkle in the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses. Stir them gently into the hot pasta until everything is velvety and melted, coating the chicken and noodles in cheesy goodness. This is the step that transforms the meal into true comfort food!

Step 4: Finish with Bacon and Green Onions

Before serving, toss in the crispy, crumbled bacon and shower the pan with a handful of sliced green onions. The bacon brings smoky crunch, while the onions offer freshness and color. Give it all a final stir, and you’re ready to dig in.

How to Serve One-Pan Monterey Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of fresh green onions is a classic finish for One-Pan Monterey Chicken Pasta, but don’t stop there! Try adding a little extra shredded cheese on top right before serving, or a pinch of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of green. If you like it spicy, a few sliced jalapeños would take things up a notch.

Side Dishes

This hearty dish can stand alone as a complete meal, but it also loves some simple sides. Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, or add roasted vegetables for even more color and nutrients. Garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls are always welcome for mopping up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing look, serve One-Pan Monterey Chicken Pasta straight from the skillet, garnished generously for a rustic touch. To make things fancier, spoon it into individual ramekins, top with cheese and bacon, and broil briefly for a bubbly, golden crust. You can also offer a toppings bar with extra barbecue sauce, chopped herbs, or diced tomatoes for everyone to customize their plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, your Monterey Chicken Pasta will keep well for up to 3 days, staying flavorful and moist thanks to the delicious sauce and cheese.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze One-Pan Monterey Chicken Pasta! Portion into freezer-safe containers, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The pasta might soften a little, but the flavors will still shine.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through to heat evenly. Finish with a fresh sprinkle of cheese or green onions to revive those just-cooked flavors.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne and rotini work perfectly, you can swap in any short, sturdy pasta you have on hand, like fusilli or farfalle. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as different shapes may vary slightly.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Definitely! Stir in some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the chicken, or use a spicy barbecue sauce for a bigger kick. You can also finish with hot sauce to taste.

What’s the best way to cook the bacon?

For crispy bacon, cook it separately in a skillet or in the oven until browned, then crumble and add it at the end. If you’re short on time, you can use high-quality pre-cooked bacon—just heat it up a bit before sprinkling on top.

Can I make One-Pan Monterey Chicken Pasta ahead of time for a party?

Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. When it’s time to serve, sprinkle with extra cheese and bake covered in a low oven until hot and bubbly, then add your garnishes.

Are there any dairy-free substitutes for the cheese?

There are great dairy-free cheese alternatives available in most grocery stores! Substitute your favorite brands for both the Monterey Jack and cheddar to make the dish suitable for everyone at your table.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a hearty, flavor-packed meal that won’t leave you with a mountain of dishes, you have to give One-Pan Monterey Chicken Pasta a try! It’s the perfect combination of smoky, cheesy, and comforting, with just the right touch of freshness and crunch. I can’t wait for you to dig in and make this easy dinner a delicious part of your routine!

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