Super Easy Monterey Chicken Recipe

Easy Cheesy Chicken Bake

This easy recipe for Monterey chicken is a take on a popular chicken recipe that used to be served at Chili’s restaurant. They no longer have it on the menu, but you can easily make this easy dinner at home.

So if you’re looking for a super delicious and quick weeknight meal that you can throw together in 30 minutes, this is the one for you! My family absolutely loves it, and my son says it’s one of the best chicken recipes he’s ever tasted!

We love to serve asparagus, broccoli or a green salad on the side. Rice or pasta is another option.

Ingredient Notes

Here’s a quick overview of what you need and why. Full amounts are in the printable recipe card below.

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts — I love to use smaller pieces since they cook faster. If you can only get larger ones, I recommend slicing them in half. Pounding the chicken lightly will make them cook evenly.
• BBQ sauce — Use your favorite barbecue sauce here. You won’t need much — just enough to coat the chicken.
• Monterey Jack cheese — melts like a dream and has a mild flavor. Colby Jack would also be a good choice here.
• Cooked Bacon — I like to chop up leftover bacon, but you can cook a couple of pieces or use Bacon Bits from the store.
• Seasonings — sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder and onion powder
• Tomato and onion — to garnish the dish after baking
• Olive oil — to prevent sticking. You can also use a different oil or non stick cooking spray.

How to Make Monterey Chicken

Just add the prepared chicken to a baking dish, season it, and add the BBQ sauce. Bake for 15-20 minutes, top with cheese and bacon, and bake until the cheese is melted. Top with onion and tomatoes before serving.