Flavor-Packed Monterey Chicken Recipe – The Perfect Blend of BBQ, Cheese, and Bacon

Get ready to experience the incredible fusion of barbecue, cheese, and bacon with this Monterey Chicken recipe that will have you reaching for seconds! The tender, juicy chicken breast, coated in a smoky BBQ sauce, melts perfectly into a cheesy, bacon-topped finish. This dish is the ideal blend of rich, bold flavors that make every bite unforgettable. If you're looking for a savory, quick-to-make meal, this one’s for you!

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I first discovered this gem from Insanely Good Recipes, and let me tell you, it’s been an absolute game-changer in my kitchen. I knew it would become a family favorite the moment I tried it.

The best part? This easy Monterey chicken recipe doesn’t take much time, but the flavor it delivers is second to none. You’ll get crispy, flavorful chicken with layers of cheesy goodness, savory bacon, and the fresh kick of diced tomatoes and green onions.

A Bit of Backstory: How Monterey Chicken Became a Go-To

I remember trying this recipe for the first time during a backyard BBQ with friends. The chicken’s smoky BBQ flavor, topped with gooey cheese and crispy bacon, was such a hit that people kept coming back for more. It was a major crowd-pleaser, and I haven’t looked back since!

Fun Fact: The History of Monterey Jack Cheese

Did you know Monterey Jack cheese, a key ingredient in this dish, originated in California? It’s named after the city of Monterey and was created by Mexican Franciscan friars in the 1700s. The creamy, mild flavor of Monterey Jack perfectly complements the rich BBQ sauce in this dish, making it a truly American-inspired recipe.

Let’s Get Cooking: The Ultimate Monterey Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 large tomato, diced
• ¼ cup sliced green onions

Instructions:

1. Prep the Chicken: Begin by placing the chicken breasts between two layers of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken to an even thickness for even cooking. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Flip the chicken and brush the tops with BBQ sauce.
3. Preheat the Broiler: After flipping the chicken, preheat your oven's broiler to medium-high. This will ensure the cheese melts perfectly.
4. Add More BBQ and Cheese: Flip the chicken once more, brushing it generously with more BBQ sauce. Then, divide the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese evenly on top of each chicken breast.
5. Broil to Perfection: Place the skillet in the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning!
6. Finish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Top with the crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, and green onions for the perfect final touch. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips:

• Flatten the Chicken: Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness helps them cook faster and more evenly, so you don’t end up with dry edges and an undercooked center.
• Cook the Bacon First: To save on dishes and maximize flavor, cook the bacon in the same skillet you’ll use for the chicken. The leftover bacon grease will add an extra level of richness to the chicken!
• Oven-Safe Skillet: An oven-safe skillet is a lifesaver when transitioning the chicken from the stovetop to the broiler. Don’t have one? No worries! You can transfer the chicken to a baking dish before broiling.

Pairing Suggestions:

This Monterey Chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes for a hearty dinner. If you're looking to keep things light, try serving it with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli.

Variations for Dietary Preferences:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu steaks for a veggie-forward take.
• Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the labels on your BBQ sauce and bacon to ensure they're gluten-free.

This Monterey Chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend dinner with friends. The balance of tangy BBQ sauce, gooey melted cheese, and the satisfying crunch of bacon makes it absolutely irresistible.

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