Description
Sizzling BBQ Monterey Chicken delivers a mouthwatering blend of smoky, cheesy goodness that tantalizes taste buds. Crispy bacon and melted cheese crown this irresistible dish, promising a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Spices and Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Toppings and Cheese:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
Instructions
- Prepare chicken breasts by placing between plastic wrap and gently pounding to create uniform thickness. Thoroughly dry and liberally season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip chicken and generously brush top surfaces with barbecue sauce. Continue cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes, ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Activate broiler to medium-high setting during the cooking process.
- Reposition chicken and apply another layer of barbecue sauce across the surface. Distribute cheese evenly over each chicken breast.
- Transfer skillet directly to preheated broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully until cheese melts completely and develops a slight golden bubbling texture.
- Remove skillet from broiler and allow chicken to rest for 2-3 minutes to preserve juiciness and let cheese set slightly.
- Plate the chicken and garnish immediately with crumbled bacon, freshly diced tomatoes, and finely chopped green onions for added flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- Pound chicken evenly to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dry spots or undercooked sections.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help spices adhere better and create a delicious crispy exterior when searing.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee chicken reaches safe 165°F internal temperature without overcooking.
- Choose high-quality barbecue sauce for maximum flavor impact and consider homemade or local artisan brands for unique taste profiles.
- For gluten-free option, select gluten-free barbecue sauce and verify bacon’s ingredients.
- Substitute dairy cheese with plant-based alternatives for vegan adaptation.
- Swap bacon with turkey bacon or coconut bacon bits for lighter protein options.
- Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for extra brightness and visual appeal.
- Rest chicken after cooking to retain moisture and allow juices to redistribute throughout meat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 1200 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg