Description
Monterey chicken brings together succulent grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheese in a mouthwatering California-inspired dish. Hearty flavors and simple ingredients combine for a satisfying meal you’ll crave time and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Cheese and Dairy:
- 1 cup monterey jack cheese, shredded
Toppings and Seasonings:
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tomato, diced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) BBQ sauce
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Warm the oven to a moderate temperature of 375°F, creating an ideal cooking environment for the chicken.
- Enhance the chicken breasts with a generous sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring even seasoning across the surface.
- Place a skillet over medium heat, drizzle with olive oil, and carefully lay the seasoned chicken breasts into the pan.
- Sear the chicken for approximately 5-6 minutes on each side, developing a golden-brown exterior that locks in moisture and flavor.
- Carefully transfer the partially cooked chicken to a clean baking dish, preparing it for the next stage of cooking.
- Generously coat each chicken breast with a layer of tangy BBQ sauce, creating a glossy and flavorful glaze.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the sauced chicken, allowing it to melt and create a rich, creamy topping.
- Distribute crumbled bacon across the cheese-covered chicken, adding a smoky and crispy element to the dish.
- Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese becomes perfectly melted.
- Remove from the oven and add a final flourish of freshly diced tomatoes and finely chopped green onions as a vibrant garnish.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is still warm and bubbling, showcasing the layered flavors and textures of the dish.
Notes
- Choose skinless, boneless chicken breasts for even cooking and easier preparation.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and prevent steaming.
- Opt for thick-cut bacon to provide maximum flavor and crispiness when crumbled on top.
- Swap BBQ sauce with honey mustard or teriyaki for a different flavor profile that keeps the dish exciting and versatile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg