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Monterey Chicken Pasta - Final Dish

Monterey Chicken Pasta

Discover the ultimate creamy comfort food! This Monterey Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, cheesy sauce with a kick from Rotel tomatoes—all ready in just 40 minutes for a satisfying family dinner.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Pasta & Protein:

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, drained

For Garnish:

 

  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

 

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season Chicken: Pat chicken dry and toss with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cook Bacon & Chicken: In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon. Add olive oil to bacon drippings. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken.
  4. Make the Roux: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Sprinkle flour over butter and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
  5. Build the Sauce: Gradually whisk in warm milk and chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Add Cheese & Tomatoes: Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Stir in Italian seasoning and drained Rotel tomatoes.
  7. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and most of the bacon to the sauce. Toss gently to coat and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
  8. Serve: Garnish with remaining bacon, green onions, and parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

 

  • For a Smooth Sauce: Warm the milk before adding and shred your own cheese from a block for best melting.
  • Spice Level: Use mild Rotel for less heat, or hot Rotel for more spice.
  • Make Ahead: The sauce can be made 1-2 days ahead. Reheat gently before combining with freshly cooked pasta and chicken.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.