Looking for a fast, flavorful dinner that everyone will devour? This Monterey Chicken recipe is your new go-to. Loaded with juicy chicken breasts, tangy barbecue sauce, smoky bacon, and melted cheese, it’s a weeknight lifesaver you’ll make again and again. The best part? It’s ready in under 20 minutes using just one skillet. In this article, you’ll discover exactly how to make Monterey Chicken at home, what to serve it with, smart storage tips, and expert tricks to make it foolproof. Looking for inspiration? Try our Creamy Garlic Shrimp for another fast, crowd-pleasing dinner idea.
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Table of Contents
Why Monterey Chicken Is a Must-Try Dinner
Origin and Restaurant Inspiration
Monterey Chicken rose to popularity thanks to Chili’s restaurant, where it was once a standout item on the menu. When fans discovered it had been discontinued, home cooks everywhere scrambled to replicate its bold, cheesy, barbecue flavor. This skillet version captures the original magic with fewer ingredients and a lot less time.
Why It’s Perfect for Busy Weeknights
You only need one skillet, a handful of ingredients, and 20 minutes to make it happen. That’s what makes Monterey Chicken a weeknight champion. It’s rich in flavor, high in protein, and pairs with just about any side dish you’ve got on hand. Plus, minimal prep means less cleanup—who doesn’t love that?
Nutrition Overview and Calorie Count
On average, a single serving of Monterey Chicken clocks in around 380 calories, with 35 grams of protein, 21 grams of fat, and 11 grams of carbs. This makes it a solid choice for low-carb or high-protein diets. Just go easy on the barbecue sauce if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Ingredients You Need to Make Monterey Chicken
Main Proteins and Sauces
The beauty of Monterey Chicken lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 4 boneless, skinless |
| Bacon | 4 slices |
| Barbecue sauce | 4 tablespoons |
| Chicken stock | ½ cup |
The chicken should be pounded to an even thickness for quicker, more even cooking. The barbecue sauce brings in smoky sweetness, while the chicken stock ensures the meat stays moist.
Toppings That Take It to the Next Level
You can’t talk about Monterey Chicken without spotlighting the toppings:
- Colby Jack cheese – 4 ounces, shredded
- Tomatoes – 1, diced
- Green onions – 2, sliced
The cheese melts into gooey perfection, while the fresh tomato and green onions add a burst of brightness. Check out our Crispy Baked Zucchini Slices for a veggie topping idea that complements this dish beautifully.
Optional Add-Ons for a Personal Touch
Want to elevate the flavor even more? Here are a few extras you can mix and match:
- Jalapeño slices for heat
- Chopped cilantro for a Tex-Mex twist
- Chives as a green onion substitute
- A drizzle of ranch dressing for extra creaminess
Don’t miss our Easy Pickled Okra Recipe if you’re looking to add a Southern-inspired side that pairs beautifully with this dish.
How to Make Skillet Monterey Chicken in 20 Minutes
Prep Tips for Juicy Chicken
Start by pounding your chicken breasts to an even thickness—this reduces cook time and prevents dryness. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. While you’re at it, slice the bacon and shred your cheese to speed things up during cooking.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Fry the bacon in a large skillet until crisp. Remove and set aside on paper towels.
- Brown the chicken in the same skillet (in the bacon grease) for 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken stock, cover with a lid, and simmer for 4–5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Top each piece with barbecue sauce, 2 bacon slices, and cheese.
- Broil or melt cheese (see next section).
- Garnish with diced tomatoes and green onions before serving.
Looking for another quick skillet dinner? Discover great ideas like Ground Beef Zucchini Boats to keep your weeknights simple and tasty.
Broiling vs Melting the Cheese
For the classic Monterey Chicken experience, popping the skillet under the broiler for 1 minute works best. It melts the cheese perfectly and slightly crisps the bacon. No broiler? Just cover the skillet with a lid for 1–2 minutes and let the cheese melt gently from the residual heat.
Don’t miss our Creamette Lasagna Recipe for another cheesy, comforting dish made with pantry staples.
What to Serve with Monterey Chicken
Best Side Dishes and Veggie Pairings
Monterey Chicken is rich and flavorful, so pairing it with lighter or crispy sides balances the meal beautifully. Some go-to sides include:
- Garlic roasted potatoes – Their crisp exterior complements the juicy chicken
- Steamed green beans or grilled asparagus – Add color and crunch
- Corn on the cob – The sweet flavor pairs well with barbecue notes
- Rice pilaf – Absorbs all that delicious barbecue sauce
Check out our Zucchini Cornbread Casserole for a hearty and comforting side option.
Fresh Salads That Complement the Dish
A cool, crunchy salad cuts through the richness of cheese and bacon. Some great pairings:
- Strawberry spinach salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- Broccoli salad with sunflower seeds and dried cranberries
- Classic Caesar with a squeeze of lemon for added freshness
Toss in something seasonal for variety. Discover great ideas like our Nectarine Fruit Butter Recipe to add a fruity spread alongside bread rolls.
Make It a Complete Meal
Want to turn this into a full dinner party dish? Add:
- Warm bread or garlic knots
- A cold pasta salad
- A light, sparkling mocktail or lemonade
This chicken works well for both casual meals and more elevated occasions. Just adjust the sides to match the vibe.
Storing and Reheating Monterey Chicken
Refrigerator and Freezer Instructions
Have leftovers? No problem. Monterey Chicken stores surprisingly well.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Store in an airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Remove tomato/green onion before freezing |
Before freezing, wrap each chicken breast individually. This way, you can reheat just one or two without thawing the entire batch.
Best Way to Reheat Without Drying Out
To keep the chicken juicy and the cheese gooey:
- Oven: Reheat covered at 325°F for 10–12 minutes
- Skillet: Add a splash of chicken broth and reheat over medium-low
- Microwave: Use 50% power and reheat in 1-minute intervals to avoid rubbery texture
If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight for best results. Looking for another easy make-ahead meal? Don’t miss our Turkey Meatballs for a freezer-friendly dinner option.
Common Mistakes and Pro Tips
Avoiding Overcooked Chicken
Overcooked chicken is dry and tough—no one wants that. Prevent this by:
- Pounding chicken to even thickness
- Using a meat thermometer (internal temp: 165°F)
- Removing from heat once done and letting it rest briefly
Choosing the Right Barbecue Sauce
Barbecue sauce makes or breaks this dish. Choose wisely:
| Style | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Sweet & smoky | Best for kids and mild palates |
| Spicy chipotle | Adds bold heat |
| Honey-based | Offers a smooth, caramelized finish |
Avoid overly vinegary or thin sauces—they won’t cling well to the chicken.
Bacon Crisping Tricks
Nothing ruins Monterey Chicken faster than soggy bacon. Try these tips:
- Fry bacon before cooking the chicken, not with it
- Let it drain on paper towels to maintain crispness
- Don’t add bacon until the cheese is melted—this avoids burning
If you’re feeling adventurous, use candied bacon for a sweet-savory twist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Monterey Chicken
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! While the texture may be slightly different, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just warm it in the skillet with a bit of stock, then add your toppings.
What cheese works best besides Colby Jack?
Try Monterey Jack (of course), cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend. All melt well and complement the barbecue flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Just use gluten-free barbecue sauce and double-check that your chicken stock has no added gluten. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion: Why This Monterey Chicken Should Be on Your Weekly Menu
This Monterey Chicken recipe is everything a weeknight dinner should be—quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor. In just 20 minutes, you get juicy chicken layered with smoky bacon, rich barbecue sauce, and perfectly melted cheese. With endless pairing options and simple ingredients, it’s a foolproof dinner that’s sure to please even picky eaters.
Whether you’re prepping for the week, hosting a casual dinner, or need a last-minute meal idea, this dish delivers every time. So the next time you’re in a dinner rut, skip takeout and serve up this homemade classic.
Don’t miss our White Chicken Chili for another comforting chicken favorite that’s perfect for any night of the week.
PrintMonterey Chicken
This Monterey Chicken recipe is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner made in just 20 minutes. Juicy chicken breasts are topped with barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and melted Colby Jack cheese, then finished with fresh tomato and green onions for a bold and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Entree
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 4 tablespoons barbecue sauce
- 4 ounces Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 tomato, diced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fry bacon in a large skillet until crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness and season with salt and pepper if desired.
- Brown chicken in the bacon grease for 2–3 minutes per side over medium-high heat.
- Pour chicken stock over the chicken, cover the skillet, and cook for 4–5 minutes until fully cooked.
- Turn off heat and spread barbecue sauce over each chicken breast.
- Top each breast with two slices of bacon and shredded cheese.
- Place under the broiler for 30 seconds to 1 minute until the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with diced tomato and sliced green onions. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken as a shortcut if needed.
- Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, cheddar, or Mexican blend cheese all work well.
- Use gluten-free BBQ sauce and stock for a gluten-free version.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months without garnishes.
