Monterey Chicken Bubble Up: Cheesy, Smoky, and Irresistibly Bubbly
Tender chicken, smoky bacon, and buttery biscuits baked in a creamy barbecue sauce—this casserole is pure comfort
Introduction: A Weeknight Wonder with Big Flavor
This Monterey Chicken Bubble Up is everything you want in a cozy casserole—easy to assemble, loaded with flavor, and guaranteed to satisfy. It starts with shredded chicken and buttery biscuit pieces tossed in a creamy barbecue sauce, then baked until golden and bubbly. Monterey Jack cheese adds melty richness, while bacon, tomatoes, and green onions bring texture and freshness.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a potluck, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s explore what makes this casserole so crave-worthy:
Base:
- Cooked chicken (2 cups, shredded or chopped)
Adds protein and hearty texture—use rotisserie or leftovers. - Refrigerated biscuits (1 can, 16.3 oz, cut into quarters)
Puff up into golden, buttery bites.
Tip: Use buttermilk or flaky-style biscuits for extra richness.
Sauce:
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz)
Adds creamy depth and binds the ingredients. - Sour cream (½ cup)
Adds tang and smoothness. - Barbecue sauce (⅓ cup)
Adds smoky sweetness—choose your favorite brand.
Optional: Add a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Cheese:
- Monterey Jack cheese (1½ cups, shredded, divided)
Melts beautifully and adds mild creaminess.
Optional: Mix with cheddar or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
Toppings:
- Cooked and crumbled bacon (½ cup)
Adds smoky crunch. - Diced tomatoes (½ cup, optional)
Adds freshness and acidity. - Green onions (¼ cup, sliced)
Add color and mild onion flavor.
Tip: Add toppings just before final bake for best texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Tip: Use nonstick spray or butter for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a large bowl:
- Combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and barbecue sauce.
Stir until smooth.
Optional: Add garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra depth.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add:
- Shredded chicken
- Biscuit pieces
- 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese
- Half of the bacon
Stir until biscuits are evenly coated.
Tip: Mix gently to avoid breaking up biscuit pieces.
Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish
Pour mixture into prepared dish.
Spread evenly.
Optional: Press down lightly to ensure even baking.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until:
- Biscuits are golden
- Sauce is bubbling
Tip: Check center for doneness—biscuits should be cooked through.
Step 6: Add Toppings
Remove from oven.
Sprinkle:
- Remaining ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese
- Remaining bacon
- Diced tomatoes
- Green onions
Return to oven for 5 minutes, until cheese is melted.
Presentation Tip: Garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of barbecue sauce.
Step 7: Serve
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Slice and enjoy!
Optional: Serve with a side salad or steamed veggies.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners
- Potlucks
- Game day spreads
- Meal prep
Pair with:
- Coleslaw
- Cornbread
- Roasted broccoli
Tip: Serve in individual ramekins for a plated look.
Variations to Try
Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:
Spicy Kick
Use spicy barbecue sauce and pepper jack cheese.
Garlic Herb
Add garlic powder and Italian seasoning to the sauce.
Veggie Boost
Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach.
Buffalo Style
Swap barbecue sauce for buffalo sauce and add blue cheese crumbles.
Vegetarian
Use plant-based chicken and cream of mushroom soup.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: Assemble up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate.
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in oven.
Tip: Reheat covered to preserve moisture.
Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 6)
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: ~24g
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
- Fat: ~24g
- Sugar: ~6g
- Sodium: ~700mg
- Fiber: ~2g
This dish is:
- Comfort food approved
- Kid-friendly
- Crowd-pleasing
- Perfect for leftovers
Final Thoughts
This Monterey Chicken Bubble Up is more than just dinner—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and ease. Whether you’re serving it fresh from the oven or enjoying a reheated slice, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.