Description
Monterey chicken brings together succulent grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheese in a mouthwatering Southern-style dish. Hearty flavors and simple ingredients make you crave this irresistible comfort meal that promises to satisfy hunger and delight taste buds.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices bacon (cooked until crispy)
Cheese and Sauce:
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
Garnish and Seasoning:
- 1 tomato (diced)
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for cooking.
- Liberally season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Create a golden exterior by searing chicken in hot olive oil over medium heat for 4-5 minutes on each side, developing a rich caramelized surface.
- Transfer seared chicken to a baking dish and generously coat each piece with tangy BBQ sauce, ensuring complete coverage.
- Layer crispy bacon strips across the sauced chicken breasts, creating a savory foundation.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of Monterey Jack cheese over the bacon, allowing it to melt and create a creamy topping.
- Slide the prepared chicken into the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese transforms into a bubbly, golden blanket.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and immediately garnish with fresh, vibrant diced tomatoes and finely chopped green onions.
- Serve immediately while hot and cheese is still melted, presenting a visually appealing and aromatic dish.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is at room temperature before cooking to promote even searing and prevent tough meat.
- Use thick-cut bacon for maximum crispiness and robust flavor that complements the chicken’s texture.
- Choose a smoky BBQ sauce to enhance the overall depth of the dish and provide a tangy undertone.
- Consider substituting bacon with turkey bacon or omitting for a lighter, lower-fat version suitable for health-conscious diners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg