Monterey chicken

Name: Monterey chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 oz bacon (54g); 8 chicken breasts (1840g); 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (120g); 1/2 cup monterey cheese (54g); 1/2 cup canned tomatoes (120g); 1 onion stalk (12g)

Monterey Chicken combines juicy chicken breasts with crispy bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and creamy Monterey cheese, baked until bubbly. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners, offering a rich blend of flavors.

23 Dec 2025
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

2 oz bacon
8 chicken breasts
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1/2 cup monterey cheese
1/2 cup canned tomatoes
1 onion stalk

Monterey Chicken is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and creamy Monterey cheese. It's a perfect recipe for a hearty family dinner, bringing together a rich blend of flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. This guide will help you prepare Monterey Chicken with easy-to-follow steps and tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Begin by dicing the bacon and finely chopping the onion stalk. Drain and dice the canned tomatoes if they aren't pre-chopped.

2. Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.

3. Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Cook Chicken: In the same skillet with the bacon fat, cook the chicken breasts over medium-high heat. Cook each side for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Depending on the size of your skillet, you may need to do this in batches. Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and place them on a baking sheet.

5. Preheat Oven: While the chicken is cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

6. Assemble the Chicken: Once all chicken breasts are cooked and on the baking sheet, brush the top of each one with a generous amount of BBQ sauce.

7. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the BBQ sauce on each chicken breast. Follow by evenly distributing the diced canned tomatoes and chopped onion stalk over the cheese. Finally, sprinkle the crispy bacon bits on top.

8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy your Monterey Chicken with your favorite sides!

Monterey Chicken is a crowd-pleasing meal that is both delicious and easy to make. By following these steps and incorporating the given tips, you can create a dish that's full of flavor and sure to impress your family and friends. Serve it with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying dinner experience.

Monterey chicken FAQ:

What is the baking time for Monterey Chicken?

Bake the Monterey Chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking on the stovetop?

The chicken breasts are fully cooked when they are no longer pink in the center and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Each side should be cooked for about 6-8 minutes over medium-high heat.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Monterey Jack?

Yes, you can substitute other cheeses like cheddar or provolone if desired. Choose a cheese that melts well for the best results.

How should I store leftover Monterey Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What can I substitute for BBQ sauce if I don't have any?

You can use honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a homemade sauce with ketchup, vinegar, and spices as a substitute for BBQ sauce.

Tips:

- Make sure to cook the bacon until it's crispy; this will add a nice crunch and smoky flavor to your dish.

- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly and remain tender.

- Use a good-quality BBQ sauce for the best flavor; you can also experiment with different varieties to find your favorite.

- If you prefer a bit of kick, consider adding some chopped jalapenos to the canned tomatoes.

- Let the cheese melt completely on the chicken in the last few minutes of baking for a perfectly gooey finish.

- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or cilantro, for an added burst of freshness.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 730kcal
Protein 110g
Carbohydrates 14g
Fiber 0.91g
Sugar 11g
Fat 22g

Monterey chicken