Monterey Chicken For The Grill
Juicy grilled chicken breasts topped with crispy bacon, melted Monterey Jack cheese, and fresh scallions and tomatoes, offering a savory, cheesy flavor perfect for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grill chicken breasts with a thin layer of barbecue sauce until cooked through.
- Fry bacon until crispy and drain on paper towels.
- Chop scallions and tomatoes into very small bits.
- Place cooked chicken in a flat pan, like a cookie sheet with sides.
- Pour a little more barbecue sauce on each chicken breast.
- Place bacon strips on top of the chicken.
- Cover with Monterey Jack cheese or a mixture of Monterey Jack and Cheddar.
- Bake in a hot oven until the cheese melts.
- Remove from oven and serve topped with chopped scallions and tomatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, marinate the chicken in barbecue sauce for at least an hour before grilling. If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, a combination of Cheddar and Gouda works well. For a lighter option, consider using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. Ensure the grill is preheated for even cooking and to get those beautiful grill marks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Monterey Chicken with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheesy Pasta 'N Chicken for a comforting feast. For a complete meal, consider adding some garlic bread or corn on the cob. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Monterey Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain the cheese's creamy texture without drying out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Monterey Chicken For The Grill contains roughly 164 calories, with 12g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 597mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be aware that the skin will become crispy during grilling, which adds a nice texture. If you choose skin-on, be sure to monitor the cooking time closely as it may need a few extra minutes.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make Monterey Chicken healthier, use skinless chicken breasts and substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or opt for a reduced-fat cheese. Adding more vegetables on top, like bell peppers or spinach, can also increase the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.
What type of barbecue sauce is best for this dish?
While K. C. Masterpiece original barbecue sauce works well, feel free to experiment with other brands or homemade sauces. A tangy or smoky barbecue sauce complements the flavors of the chicken and cheese. If you prefer a spicier kick, opt for a sauce with a bit of heat or add some chili powder to the mix.
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).