Monterey Chicken Spaghetti: A Cheesy, Comforting Twist on a Classic Pasta Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti blends tender chicken, creamy sauce, melty Monterey Jack cheese, and perfectly cooked spaghetti into a comforting casserole-style dish that feels both nostalgic and elevated. It combines the richness of a classic chicken spaghetti with the mild, buttery flavour of Monterey Jack, creating a dinner that appeals to both busy families and anyone craving warm, cheesy comfort.
The first time I prepared this recipe, I swapped part of the milk for a splash of almond milk, and it added a subtle nuttiness without compromising the creamy texture. This dish is wonderfully adaptable—you can keep it simple or load it with vegetables, spice, or extra cheese. It offers everything you love about a baked pasta dish while remaining approachable and quick to assemble.

Print

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked shredded or diced chicken

The protein base of the casserole. Using pre-cooked chicken helps the dish come together quickly, and the mild flavour pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and cheese.

Spaghetti

Traditional spaghetti gives the dish its classic texture and helps absorb the savoury, creamy sauce.

Monterey Jack cheese

The signature cheese of this recipe—mild, melty, and perfect for creating a luscious, creamy pasta sauce.

Cream of chicken soup

Provides the velvety, savoury backbone of the sauce and ties all ingredients together effortlessly.

Chicken broth

Thins the sauce to the ideal consistency and enriches the overall flavour.

Milk

Adds creaminess and lightens the soup base without making the dish heavy.

Rotel or diced tomatoes with green chilies

Adds brightness, gentle heat, and acidity to balance the cheese and chicken.

Onion and garlic

Aromatics that deepen the flavour and build a savoury base for the sauce.

Salt, pepper, and paprika

Simple seasonings that enhance the flavour profile without overpowering the creamy sauce.

Butter or oil

Used to sauté the aromatics and develop flavour at the start of the cooking process.

Directions

Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until softened. Add garlic and cook briefly, just until fragrant.
Stir in the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and milk, whisking until smooth. Add paprika, salt, and black pepper to season. Once the sauce is warmed through, fold in the diced or shredded chicken along with the Rotel. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes so the flavours meld.
Reduce the heat and add half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted and incorporated into the sauce. Add the cooked spaghetti and toss until it is fully coated. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, and bake until the cheese melts and bubbles around the edges. Allow the dish to rest briefly before serving so the sauce settles into the pasta.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease

Servings and timing

Serves 6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 to 30 minutes
Total time: 35 to 40 minutes

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if the pasta thickens. This dish freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture.

Variations and Customizations

Add vegetables

Bell peppers, spinach, peas, or mushrooms add freshness and colour.

Make it spicy

Use pepper jack cheese or add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

Swap the pasta

Fettuccine, rotini, or penne all work nicely.

Use different cheeses

Cheddar, Colby Jack, or mozzarella offer different melting qualities and flavours.

Add bacon

Crispy bacon pieces add smoky richness and extra texture.

Introduce herbs

Fresh parsley, basil, or thyme add brightness to the creamy sauce.

Make it creamier

Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for indulgence.

Add crunch

Top with buttery breadcrumbs before baking for a crisp, golden finish.

Make it gluten-free

Use gluten-free spaghetti and a certified gluten-free soup base.

Increase protein

Add black beans or cooked sausage to make the dish even heartier.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it adds convenience and great flavour.

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Absolutely—just cook it to al dente to avoid mushiness.

Is Monterey Jack essential?

It’s recommended, but other mild melting cheeses work well.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it and refrigerate before baking.

Can I freeze Monterey Chicken Spaghetti?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months.

How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?

Do not overbake and add a splash of milk when reheating if needed.

Can I omit the tomatoes?

Yes, but the dish will be richer and less bright.

Can I use cream of mushroom soup instead?

Yes, it adds earthy flavour and works nicely.

How spicy is Rotel?

It adds mild heat. Choose mild or hot depending on your preference.

What sides pair best?

Green salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread complement this dish.

Conclusion

Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a warm, comforting pasta bake that blends creamy sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese into an irresistible meal. It is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet flavourful enough to serve to guests. With endless ways to customise the flavours, enhance the heat, or add extra vegetables, this versatile recipe promises consistent comfort and satisfaction every time you prepare it.

Hungry for more?  Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!