Cindy'S Chicken
Cindy's Chicken features tender baked chicken breasts topped with savory ham and melted Monterey Jack cheese, perfect for a comforting, cheesy meal suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put boneless chicken breasts in an ovenproof dish and cover with barbecue sauce.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 to 45 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Top the chicken with sliced ham and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Put back in the oven until the cheese just barely melts.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in barbecue sauce for a few hours before baking. If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, feel free to substitute with cheddar or provolone. Thinly sliced turkey or bacon can be used in place of ham for a different twist. Make sure to check the chicken for doneness with a meat thermometer, aiming for 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cindy's Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Quick Chicken Tetrazzini for a hearty dinner option. Add some crusty bread to soak up the barbecue sauce, or serve over rice for a comforting touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals, covering with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cindy'S Chicken contains roughly 173 calories, with 17g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value). At about 173 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skin-on chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts, but be aware that they may require a slightly longer cooking time. The skin will also add richness and flavor, but be sure to adjust the barbecue sauce amount to your preference.
What can I use instead of barbecue sauce?
If you're looking for a different flavor profile, consider using teriyaki sauce or a honey mustard glaze. These alternatives will change the taste significantly, offering a unique twist while still complementing the ham and cheese.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the chicken with barbecue sauce, ham, and cheese ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate it. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before baking, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).