Looking for a mouthwatering, restaurant-quality chicken dish that you can easily make at home? Look no further! This Monterey Chicken recipe is packed with flavor, from juicy, tender chicken breasts to smoky bacon, melted cheese, and a tangy BBQ sauce topping. It’s a sure crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a family dinner or even a weekend BBQ party. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cook, this easy-to-follow guide will help you whip up the perfect Monterey Chicken. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions and expert tips!
What is Monterey Chicken?
Monterey Chicken is a flavorful dish that features grilled or pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a combination of BBQ sauce, melted cheese, and crispy bacon. The dish is typically garnished with fresh tomatoes and green onions, making it both visually appealing and incredibly tasty. Originating from the popular restaurant scene in the U.S., particularly Texas, this dish has become a beloved favorite for its smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors. It’s a great way to elevate simple chicken breasts into something extraordinary.
Ingredients List for Monterey Chicken
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Monterey Chicken:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Toppings:
- 8 slices of cooked bacon
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a mix of Cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite)
- ¼ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about Monterey Chicken is that it’s highly customizable. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try if you’re looking to switch things up:
- Cheese: Instead of Monterey Jack, you can use Cheddar, Colby Jack, or Pepper Jack for a spicier kick.
- BBQ Sauce: Feel free to use homemade BBQ sauce or any store-bought version you prefer. Some people like a sweeter sauce, while others prefer something with more heat or tang.
- Bacon: Turkey bacon or even pancetta can be substituted if you’re looking for a leaner option.
- Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs take longer to cook.
- Vegetarian: For a meatless version, you can replace the chicken with portobello mushrooms or tofu.
These simple swaps allow you to adapt the recipe to your dietary needs and personal preferences.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking Monterey Chicken is a breeze! With a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on your table. Follow this guide for perfect results every time.
How to Cook Monterey Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by prepping the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture. Then, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed to ensure full flavor in every bite.
2. Cook the Bacon:
Cook your bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once done, place the bacon on a paper towel to drain excess fat. Set aside. If you’re using turkey bacon, be mindful that it cooks faster, so keep an eye on it.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You want the outside to be golden brown and the inside fully cooked but still juicy.
4. Add BBQ Sauce and Toppings:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce onto each chicken breast. Place two slices of bacon on top of each chicken breast, and then sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese over the bacon.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the cheese melt. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on the skillet to ensure the cheese melts without burning.
6. Garnish and Serve:
After the cheese has melted, remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a serving plate. Garnish with diced tomatoes, green onions, and fresh cilantro if you’d like an extra burst of color and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When cooking Monterey Chicken, a few common mistakes can hinder your success. Here's how to avoid them:
- Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to the perfect temperature (165°F) without going over.
- Using Too Much BBQ Sauce: While BBQ sauce is delicious, too much can overpower the dish. Stick to about 2 tablespoons per chicken breast for the best balance of flavors.
- Not Melting the Cheese Fully: Make sure to give the cheese enough time to fully melt. Covering the skillet after adding the toppings helps trap the heat, ensuring a gooey, cheesy topping.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation matters, especially when serving a dish as beautiful and vibrant as Monterey Chicken. Here’s how to make it look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Monterey Chicken
Monterey Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to create a complete meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice that complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Rice: A bed of seasoned rice or even cilantro-lime rice can be a great option.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a nice crunch and freshness to balance out the dish.
- Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the cheese and bacon.
Presentation Ideas for Monterey Chicken
- Colorful Garnishes: Sprinkle chopped tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Plating: Serve the chicken on a large white plate to make the colors of the dish stand out. Add a side of mashed potatoes or vegetables next to it for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
- Slicing the Chicken: For an elegant touch, slice the chicken breasts diagonally before plating and fan out the pieces slightly. This also makes it easier for your guests to enjoy.
Monterey Chicken Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and bacon ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat and add the BBQ sauce, cheese, and toppings.
- Grill Option: For extra smoky flavor, cook the chicken on an outdoor grill instead of a skillet. Just be sure to oil the grill grates well to prevent sticking.
- Extra Crispy Bacon: If you like your bacon extra crispy, cook it in the oven or use an air fryer before adding it to the chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking. Cooking frozen chicken directly can lead to uneven cooking and dry meat.
2. What kind of BBQ sauce works best for Monterey Chicken?
This depends on your personal preference! A sweet and smoky BBQ sauce is most commonly used, but spicy or tangy BBQ sauces can add a unique twist.
3. Can I make Monterey Chicken in the oven?
Absolutely! You can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, then add the BBQ sauce, bacon, and cheese and return it to the oven for 5 more minutes until the cheese melts.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Monterey Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.
5. Can I freeze Monterey Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. However, it’s best to freeze it without the toppings and add the cheese and bacon when you’re ready to reheat it for optimal freshness.
Conclusion
Monterey Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With juicy chicken, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. The best part? It’s easy to make and can be customized with different ingredients to suit your taste.
So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and give this Monterey Chicken recipe a try! Your family will be asking for seconds—guaranteed. Enjoy!
PrintMonterey Chicken Recipe
Monterey Chicken is a flavorful dish combining grilled chicken breasts topped with BBQ sauce, melted Monterey Jack cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh tomatoes. This recipe is a perfect blend of savory, smoky, and tangy flavors, making it ideal for a quick family dinner. Simple ingredients come together for a mouthwatering experience that's easy to prepare.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling / Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or stovetop to medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked.
- Brush each chicken breast with BBQ sauce, then top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and bacon crumbles.
- Cover the grill (or cover the pan with a lid) for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Remove the chicken from heat and garnish with diced tomatoes and green onions before serving.
Notes
- Use thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Swap Monterey Jack for cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 900mg
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