Description
Monterey Chicken is a mouthwatering dish featuring juicy, tender chicken breasts topped with melted cheese, fresh tomatoes, and a smoky, sweet barbecue sauce. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, combining bold flavors and simple ingredients for a satisfying and crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
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For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
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For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
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For the Barbecue Sauce:
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
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Optional:
- Sliced jalapeños or red onion rings
- Fresh lime wedges for garnish
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pound the chicken to an even thickness and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Drizzle with olive oil.
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Grill or Bake the Chicken:
- Grill Method: Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Oven Method: Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
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Add Barbecue Sauce and Cheese: Brush the chicken with barbecue sauce, then top with Monterey Jack cheese. Grill or bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
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Add Fresh Toppings: Remove the chicken from the grill/oven and top with halved tomatoes, chopped green onions, cilantro, and any optional toppings like jalapeños or red onion rings. Garnish with lime wedges.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the chicken hot with your favorite sides, such as garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes