If you’re looking for a simple, one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor, this Easy Monterey Chicken Skillet Recipe is perfect for you. With tender rotisserie chicken, smoky bacon, cheesy goodness, and a kick of BBQ sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Plus, it comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Uses pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep time.
- Minimal Cleanup: Everything is cooked in one pan.
- Packed with Flavor: Smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and melty cheese create an irresistible combination.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded pre-cooked chicken (1/2 rotisserie chicken) ($3.50)
- 1 10 oz. can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chiles) ($0.99)
- 1/2 lb. fusilli pasta ($0.63)
- 2 cups chicken broth ($0.30)
- 1/3 cup BBQ sauce ($0.36)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese ($1.24)
- 3 slices bacon ($0.92)
- 2 green onions, sliced ($0.17)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet with lid
- Tongs or a spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups
- Mixing spoon
Instructions
- Prepare the Skillet: Place the shredded chicken, pasta, and Rotel tomatoes (undrained) in a large skillet.
- Add Broth & Simmer: Pour in two cups of chicken broth and stir to combine. Cover with a lid and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce to low and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes.
- Cook the Bacon: While the pasta is cooking, fry the bacon in a separate skillet until crispy. Drain on a paper towel, then crumble into pieces.
- Check Pasta: After 15 minutes, the pasta should be tender, and most of the liquid absorbed. If needed, simmer for an additional 5 minutes, covered or uncovered, based on how much liquid remains.
- Add BBQ Sauce & Cheese: Drizzle BBQ sauce over the cooked pasta. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top. Cover and let it sit on low heat for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
- Finish & Serve: Once the cheese is melted, top with crumbled bacon and sliced green onions. Serve immediately!
Recipe Variations & Swaps
- Pasta Substitutes: Use penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni instead of fusilli.
- Cheese Options: Swap Monterey Jack for cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses.
- Protein Alternatives: Try shredded turkey, grilled chicken, or even pulled pork for a twist.
- Spice Level: Use a spicier BBQ sauce or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Tips for the Best Monterey Chicken Skillet
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. For best results, shred your own cheese.
- Adjust Liquid as Needed: If your pasta is cooking too quickly, add a little more broth to prevent it from drying out.
- Crispy Bacon: Cook the bacon separately for maximum crispiness and texture contrast.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a couple of minutes before serving so the flavors meld together.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between intervals, or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.
- Freezing: This dish isn’t the best for freezing due to the pasta’s texture changing after thawing, but you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 3 months.
Best Side Dishes & Pairings
This Monterey Chicken Skillet pairs well with:
- Side Dishes: Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad.
- Drinks: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, a cold beer, or a refreshing lemonade.
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken instead of pre-cooked?
Yes! If using raw chicken, dice it into small pieces and cook it in the skillet with a little oil before adding the pasta and Rotel.
What if I don’t have Rotel?
You can substitute with a can of diced tomatoes and a small can of diced green chilies.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything ahead of time and reheat before serving. Just add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to keep it from drying out.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Omit the chicken and bacon and add black beans or grilled mushrooms for protein.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Monterey Chicken Skillet is a flavorful, fuss-free meal perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a one-pan wonder with minimal cleanup, and it’s sure to be a hit with the entire family. If you love easy and delicious recipes, don’t forget to share this post and subscribe for more tasty meal ideas!
Happy cooking!
