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Loaded Monterey Chicken

Easy 30-Minute Monterey Chicken: Smoky, Cheesy, and Quick Dinner Perfection

Discover the ultimate weeknight hero: Monterey Chicken! This incredible 30-minute chicken dinner is packed with the irresistible flavors of smoky barbecue sauce, zesty Rotel tomatoes, a generous helping of melted cheese, and crispy bacon. It’s guaranteed to become a family favorite in no time.

Finding inspiration for delicious yet quick dinners can often feel like a constant battle. We all want to put something wholesome and exciting on the table, but time and energy are often in short supply after a long day. That’s precisely why this Monterey Chicken recipe is a game-changer. It’s designed to be flavorful, easy to prepare, and ready in just half an hour, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a simple, satisfying meal.

This recipe transforms simple chicken breasts into a culinary delight, layering them with bold flavors that everyone will love. The combination of sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, the slight kick from Rotel tomatoes, the savory crunch of bacon, and the comforting melt of cheddar cheese creates a symphony of tastes and textures that will have you coming back for more.

A close up of a plate of food with chicken topped with tomatoes, bacon and melted cheese, ready to be served

Why Monterey Chicken Will Become Your New Go-To Recipe

There are countless reasons to adore this Monterey Chicken, beyond just its incredible taste. It’s a recipe built for convenience without compromising on flavor, offering benefits that cater to every home cook.

  • Simple, Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: You won’t need to hunt for exotic items. Most of the ingredients for this Monterey Chicken recipe are likely already in your pantry or easily found at any grocery store. This means fewer special trips and more time saved.
  • Lightning Fast Preparation: This dish truly shines when it comes to speed. By using thin-cut chicken breasts, or by simply pounding regular chicken breasts to an even thickness, you significantly reduce cooking time. From start to finish, you can have a gourmet-tasting meal on the table in about 30 minutes, ideal for hectic evenings.
  • Endless Flavor Customization: The beauty of Monterey Chicken lies in its adaptability. Want it sweeter? Opt for a honey barbecue sauce. Craving more heat? Choose a spicier BBQ sauce and use the “Hot” variety of Rotel tomatoes. Experiment with different cheese blends like Pepper Jack for an extra kick, or a Colby Jack for a milder, creamier finish. Each small change can offer a completely new dining experience, keeping your meals interesting.
  • Kid-Friendly Appeal: The combination of chicken, cheese, and barbecue sauce is a universally loved trio. Even the pickiest eaters tend to enjoy this flavorful dish, making mealtime smoother for the whole family.
  • Impressive Results, Minimal Effort: Despite its quick preparation, Monterey Chicken looks and tastes like something you’d spend hours on. It’s a fantastic dish for entertaining casual guests or simply elevating a regular weeknight meal.

Essential Ingredients for Your Monterey Chicken

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious meal. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need, along with a few tips for selection:

  • Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are preferred for their leanness and quick cooking time. For even faster and more consistent cooking, consider using thin-cut chicken breasts or pounding regular breasts to about ½-inch thickness.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavor of the chicken.
  • Oil: A neutral cooking oil like vegetable oil or olive oil for pan-searing the chicken.
  • Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite brand and flavor profile! A classic smoky BBQ sauce works wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with sweet, spicy, or tangy varieties to suit your taste.
  • Bacon Pieces: You have options here! For ultimate convenience, use pre-cooked, crumbled bacon bits found in the salad aisle. If you prefer, you can cook and crumble about 2 strips of bacon fresh for this recipe, which adds a fantastic aroma and texture.
  • Rotel Tomatoes: These canned diced tomatoes with green chilies provide a lovely balance of acidity and a gentle spice. Be sure to drain them well before using to prevent your dish from becoming watery. If you prefer less spice, use a mild Rotel, or for more heat, opt for the “Hot” variety.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds a rich, creamy layer. Medium or sharp cheddar works best, providing a distinct flavor that complements the barbecue sauce.
  • Green Onions: Sliced green onions are used as a fresh garnish, adding a hint of oniony brightness and a pop of color to the finished dish.

When selecting bacon, remember that while store-bought bacon pieces offer convenience, cooking fresh bacon yourself will often result in a richer, more robust flavor. If cooking fresh, aim for about two strips per four pieces of chicken, crisping them up and then crumbling them.

A close up of raw chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper, ready to be cooked

How to Master Monterey Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide

For the FULL PRINTABLE recipe card with exact measurements, nutritional information, and further details, please scroll to the bottom of this post.

  1. Prepare Your Skillet: Begin by heating a large skillet (cast iron or heavy-bottomed works best) over medium-high heat. Add your chosen oil, swirling it to evenly coat the bottom of the pan. This ensures the chicken won’t stick and will brown beautifully.
  2. Season and Sear the Chicken: Season both sides of your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Place the seasoned chicken into the hot skillet. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes per side. The goal is to get a nice golden-brown sear on the outside and to cook the chicken almost entirely through. The exact time may vary based on the thickness of your chicken. If using thicker breasts, you might need an extra minute or two per side.
  3. Layer the Toppings: Once the chicken is mostly cooked, it’s time to add the signature Monterey toppings. On top of each chicken breast, spoon about 1 tablespoon of barbecue sauce, followed by 3 tablespoons of drained Rotel tomatoes. Next, sprinkle a generous ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the tomatoes, and finally, scatter 1 tablespoon of bacon pieces on top of the cheese.
  4. Melt the Cheese to Perfection: Cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce the heat to low or medium-low, and allow the chicken to cook for a few more minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and gooey. The residual heat and steam under the lid will finish cooking the chicken and create that irresistible cheesy top.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese is bubbly and melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Carefully transfer the Monterey Chicken to serving plates. Garnish each piece with a sprinkle of freshly sliced green onions before serving. The fresh green onions add a welcome counterpoint to the rich flavors.

Pro Tips for Perfect Monterey Chicken

  • Even Thickness is Key: If your chicken breasts are thick, place them between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them with a meat mallet or a rolling pin until they are of even thickness (about ½-¾ inch). This ensures they cook evenly and quickly.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Crowding lowers the pan temperature, steaming the chicken instead of searing it, which prevents a nice crust from forming.
  • High Quality Ingredients: While a simple recipe, the quality of your barbecue sauce and cheese can significantly impact the final taste. Choose brands you genuinely enjoy.
  • Drain Rotel Well: Excess liquid from the Rotel can make the dish watery. Ensure they are thoroughly drained before adding them to the chicken.
  • Internal Temperature Check: For food safety, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here.
  • Spice Level Adjustment: If you love heat, use hot Rotel and a spicy barbecue sauce. For a milder flavor, opt for mild Rotel and a sweet barbecue sauce.

Customizing Your Monterey Chicken: Variations & Substitutions

This Monterey Chicken recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous modifications to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

  • Alternative Proteins: While chicken breasts are classic, you can easily substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result, or even turkey cutlets for a leaner option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
  • Cheese Choices: Don’t limit yourself to cheddar! Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick, Colby Jack offers a milder cheddar-like flavor, or a blend of Mexican cheeses can work beautifully. For an even richer taste, try smoked gouda.
  • BBQ Sauce Swaps: From smoky mesquite to sweet honey BBQ, tangy Carolina-style, or even a spicy chipotle BBQ sauce, the choice is yours! Each variation will give a distinct personality to the dish.
  • Veggie Boost: Add finely diced bell peppers or onions to the skillet with the chicken during the last few minutes of searing for extra flavor and nutrients. Sautéed mushrooms or a sprinkle of corn could also be interesting additions.
  • Herb Enhancements: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chopped parsley at the end can brighten up the flavors.
  • Rotel Alternatives: If Rotel tomatoes aren’t available, or you prefer less spice, use regular diced tomatoes with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a tiny amount of finely diced jalapeño.

What Goes Perfectly with Monterey Chicken?

Monterey Chicken is a versatile main course that pairs wonderfully with a wide array of side dishes. Whether you prefer vegetables, starches, or a light salad, there’s an option to complement this flavorful chicken.

  • Roasted Brussel Sprouts: The slight bitterness and caramelization of roasted Brussels sprouts offer a fantastic contrast to the rich and smoky chicken.
  • Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food pairing that absorbs the delicious sauce.
  • Air Fryer Baked Potatoes: A fluffy baked potato is perfect for soaking up any extra barbecue sauce and complements the hearty nature of the chicken.
  • Tossed Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the Monterey Chicken.
  • Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus adds a touch of elegance and a healthy green vegetable to your meal.
  • Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn, grilled or boiled, is a perfect side for any barbecue-inspired dish.
  • Rice Pilaf: A savory rice pilaf or plain white rice can be a great neutral base to serve alongside.
A close up of a plate of Monterey chicken with a side of green beans, garnished with green onions

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Monterey Chicken makes for excellent leftovers, which is always a bonus for busy schedules! Proper storage ensures your meal stays fresh and delicious.

If you have any leftover Monterey Chicken, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave until it’s warmed through. For best results and to prevent the chicken from drying out, you might add a splash of water or chicken broth to the container before microwaving. Alternatively, reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat with a lid, or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, which can help keep the cheese from getting rubbery. Freezing is generally not recommended for this dish as the texture of the cheese and tomatoes can change upon thawing.

Close up of a skillet with Monterey chicken, topped with melted cheese, bacon, and green onions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions you might have about making Monterey Chicken:

  • Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed before seasoning and cooking. Pat them dry to achieve a good sear.
  • What if I don’t have Rotel tomatoes? You can use a can of regular diced tomatoes, drained, and add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes for a similar flavor profile.
  • Can I bake this instead of pan-frying? Absolutely! Sear the chicken on the stovetop first for a few minutes per side to get some color, then transfer it to a baking dish. Top with the sauce, tomatoes, cheese, and bacon, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Is Monterey Chicken spicy? The spice level depends on the type of Rotel tomatoes (mild, original, hot) and barbecue sauce you choose. With original Rotel, it has a mild, pleasant zing rather than intense heat.
  • Can I prepare any part of this recipe ahead of time? You can cook and crumble the bacon ahead of time. You can also have your chicken breasts pounded to an even thickness. The dish itself is best assembled and cooked fresh due to its quick cooking time.
  • What kind of BBQ sauce is best? This is a matter of personal preference! A classic, smoky barbecue sauce is excellent, but sweet, tangy, or even a spicy chipotle variety would also work beautifully.

More Delicious and Easy Chicken Dinners

If you loved this Monterey Chicken recipe and are looking for more quick and flavorful chicken dishes, check out these other family favorites from our collection:

  • Crockpot Fiesta Chicken
  • Baked Parmesan Chicken
  • Marry Me Chicken
  • Cashew Chicken
  • Bourbon Chicken
  • Bacon Cheddar Chicken Tenders
  • Honey Dijon Chicken
A close up of a plate of food with chicken topped with tomatoes, bacon and melted cheese





5 from 10 votes

Monterey Chicken

By
Erin Sellin
Monterey Chicken – A 30 minute chicken dinner loaded with smoky barbecue sauce, spicy tomatoes, lots of cheese and bacon! A family favorite for sure!
Prep:
5
Cook:
25
Total:
30
Servings:
4
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Rate Recipe
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Ingredients


  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

  • salt and pepper

  • 2 teaspoon vegetable oil

  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce

  • 1/4 cup real bacon pieces

  • 1 cup cheddar cheese

  • 1 10 oz can Rotel tomatoes, drained

  • 1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. Heat a skillet over medium high heat. Add oil, swirling to coat.
  2. Season chicken with salt and pepper on both sides. Add chicken to the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
  3. Top each piece of chicken with 1 Tablespoon barbecue sauce, 3 Tablespoons tomatoes, 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, and 1 Tablespoon bacon pieces.
  4. Cover and cook until the cheese is melted.
  5. Top with green onions to serve.

Notes

Recipe from All the Simple Things

Nutrition

Serving: 1g
|
Calories: 455kcal
|
Carbohydrates: 12g
|
Protein: 50g
|
Fat: 22g
|
Saturated Fat: 9g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat: 11g
|
Cholesterol: 146mg
|
Sodium: 1182mg
|
Sugar: 6g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author:
Erin Sellin
Prep Time:
5
Cook Time:
25
Total Time:
30
Course:
Dinner Recipes
Cuisine:
American
Servings:
4
Calories:
455
Keyword:
monterey chicken



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