Description
Monterey Chicken
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack cheese)
6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
1 large tomato (diced)
2 green onions (sliced)
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Transfer chicken to a baking dish and brush generously with barbecue sauce.
Sprinkle shredded cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over the chicken.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Top with diced tomatoes and sliced green onions before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
#MontereyChicken #BBQChicken #ComfortFood #CheesyGoodness #EasyDinnerIdeas #FoodieFavorites #FamilyMeals #SavoryEats
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Monterey Chicken every time. First, ensure your chicken breasts are of even thickness by gently pounding them to about 1/2 inch. This guarantees even cooking. Preheat your oven and skillet simultaneously. When searing, do not move the chicken for the full 3-4 minutes to achieve a proper golden crust. After transferring to the baking dish, use a spoon to spread the barbecue sauce, ensuring every part is covered for maximum flavor. When adding cheese and bacon, press them down lightly so they adhere to the saucy chicken and don’t fall off during baking. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for the exact 165°F internal temperature for perfectly juicy meat.
Serving Suggestions
Monterey Chicken is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with several sides. For a classic comfort food plate, serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or a baked potato to soak up the delicious juices. A lighter option is a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans. For a Tex-Mex twist, accompany it with cilantro-lime rice, black beans, or a cool dollop of sour cream or guacamole on the side.
How-to Summary
In short, Monterey Chicken is made by searing seasoned chicken breasts, topping them with BBQ sauce, cheese, and bacon, then baking until melted and cooked through. The fresh tomato and green onion garnish adds a final pop of color and freshness. The entire process takes about 35 minutes from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. While cheddar or Monterey Jack are classic, pepper jack adds a spicy kick, and a Mexican cheese blend works wonderfully.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can sear the chicken and store it covered in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to cook, add sauce, cheese, and bacon, then bake, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the best way to cook the bacon? For easy clean-up and perfectly flat bacon, bake it on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. This method frees up your stovetop for searing the chicken.
My cheese is browning too fast in the oven. What should I do? If the cheese is browning before the chicken is cooked, loosely tent the baking dish with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.
Can I make this with chicken thighs? Yes, bone-in or boneless skinless thighs are a great, flavorful alternative. Adjust the baking time as needed, as thighs often require a slightly longer cook time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing, as this steams the chicken instead of creating a flavorful crust. Do not skip the searing step, as it builds a critical foundation of flavor. Ensure your bacon is fully cooked and crispy before crumbling; soft bacon will become chewy in the oven. Finally, do not overbake the chicken, as this will dry it out—rely on your meat thermometer for accuracy.
Conclusion
Monterey Chicken is the ultimate easy, crowd-pleasing dinner that combines smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors in every bite. Its simple preparation and short cook time make it a reliable weeknight solution, while its impressive presentation is perfect for casual entertaining. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this delicious classic and make it a regular in your meal rotation.