Monterey Chicken

If you’re looking for a savory, satisfying chicken dish that is simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor, look no further than Monterey Chicken. This delightful recipe features tender chicken breasts topped with ooey-gooey cheese, smoky bacon, zesty BBQ sauce, and a medley of tomatoes and green chiles. It’s the perfect answer to your weeknight dinner dilemmas and guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Monterey Chicken is a winning combination of hearty ingredients that come together in harmony. The succulent chicken acts as a canvas for the rich flavors, with the crispy bacon and melty cheese elevating each bite. This dish is not only delicious but also customizable, allowing you to add your preferred toppings or sides. Plus, with just a few straightforward steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. Get ready to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup barbeque sauce
• ¼ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese
• 14 ounces canned diced tomatoes, drained
• 4 ounces canned diced green chiles
• Sliced green onions, for garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How To Make Monterey Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and develops a nice golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Take the boneless skinless chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board. Pat them dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This simple step helps to enhance the flavor of the chicken.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear them for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. This will lock in the juices and flavor.

Step 4: Add the Barbeque Sauce and Toppings

Once the chicken is seared, remove it from the heat and drizzle ¼ cup of barbeque sauce over the top of each chicken breast. Then, layer on the drained canned diced tomatoes, followed by the cooked and crumbled bacon. Finally, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the chicken.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the Monterey Chicken is out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for a fresh touch. Then, serve hot and enjoy this mouthwatering meal!

Expert Tips

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade for a few hours before cooking.
• Feel free to use homemade barbeque sauce for an extra special touch.
• If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the ingredients to a baking dish after searing the chicken.
• Keep an eye on the cheese in the oven to avoid over-browning; you want it melty, not burnt!

Variations and Customizations

• Add sautéed bell peppers or onions for extra veggies and flavor.
• Replace the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it for a lighter version.
• Experiment with different cheese blends such as pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Try using salsa instead of diced tomatoes for a zesty twist on the recipe.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover Monterey Chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or in a preheated oven until warmed through. You can also slice the chicken and use it as a topping for salads or in wraps for a delicious lunch.

FAQ

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you will need to adjust the cooking time to ensure that it cooks through properly. Bone-in chicken generally requires a longer cooking time.

What type of barbeque sauce works best?

Choose a barbeque sauce that you enjoy! A sweeter sauce complements the bacon and tomatoes well, while a tangy or smoky sauce can add a different flavor profile to the dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken up to the baking step and store it covered in the refrigerator for a day ahead. Just let it come to room temperature before baking.

What should I serve with Monterey Chicken?

Monterey Chicken pairs beautifully with sides like creamy coleslaw, baked potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. You could also serve it with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Monterey Chicken is a fantastic dinner option that proves meat can be both simple and extravagant. With its robust flavors and easy preparation, this dish can become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, Monterey Chicken will leave a lasting impression. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in a delightful meal that’s sure to satisfy!