Laura Mariano
Monterey Chicken is a popular dish typically made with grilled or baked chicken breast topped with barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheese (usually Monterey Jack cheese, hence the name). It’s often garnished with green onions or diced tomatoes. The combination of flavors—savory chicken, smoky bacon, tangy barbecue sauce, and gooey cheese—makes it a favorite in many American restaurants and households.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
- Diced tomatoes (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Grill or bake the chicken: Grill the chicken breasts on medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
- Add barbecue sauce: During the last few minutes of cooking, brush each chicken breast generously with barbecue sauce.
- Top with bacon and cheese: Remove the chicken from the grill or oven. Place 2 slices of cooked bacon on each chicken breast, then sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.
- Melt the cheese: Return the chicken to the oven or grill for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions and diced tomatoes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
