Create an irresistible Monterey Chicken using the magic of your air fryer. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering combination of juicy grilled chicken, smoky bacon, melted cheese, and zesty barbecue sauce.
Why This Will Be Your Go-To Weeknight Meal
- Fast.
- Easy .
- Low Carb.
With just a handful of ingredients and the help of your trusty air fryer, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in the comfort of your own kitchen. The Air Fryer Monterey Chicken brings together the perfect blend of flavors and textures, with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, gooey melted cheese, and tangy barbecue sauce.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken Breasts
- Bacon
- Monterey Jack Cheese
- Cherry Tomatoes
- Low Carb Barbecue Sauce
- Garlic Powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- Green Onion
How To Make Monterey Chicken
- Preheat the Air Fryer - Start by preheating your air fryer to 400F. Preheating ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that desirable crispy exterior.
- Season the Chicken - In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with this flavorful mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Wrap with Bacon - Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each chicken breast, securing it in place. The bacon will not only infuse a smoky flavor into the chicken but also keep it moist during the cooking process.
- Air Fry the Chicken - Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them for proper air circulation. Cook for approximately 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F and the bacon turns crispy.
- Add Cheese and Barbecue Sauce - Once the chicken is cooked, remove the basket from the air fryer and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over each chicken breast. Drizzle the barbecue sauce generously on top of the cheese.
- Air Fry Again - Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Serve and Garnish - Carefully remove the Air Fryer Monterey Chicken from the basket and transfer it to a serving plate. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for an added touch of freshness and vibrant color.
Tips And Tricks
- Use Thinly Sliced Chicken Breasts - Opt for chicken breasts that are relatively thin or consider butterflying them to ensure even cooking. Thinner pieces cook faster and more evenly in the air fryer.
- Marinate the Chicken - For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in your favorite marinade for at least 30 minutes before seasoning and cooking. This will infuse the meat with delicious flavors and make it even more tender.
- Experiment with Cheese - While Monterey Jack cheese is the traditional choice for Monterey Chicken, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like cheddar, pepper jack, or even a combination of different cheeses. This allows you to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Variations
- Southwest Monterey Chicken - Season the chicken with a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for a southwestern flair. Top the chicken with pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack for a spicier kick. Serve with a side of black beans, corn salsa, and a dollop of sour cream for a complete southwestern meal.
- BBQ Ranch Monterey Chicken - Instead of using regular barbecue sauce, mix equal parts barbecue sauce and ranch dressing for a creamy and tangy flavor combination. Top the chicken with a blend of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for a richer taste. Garnish with chopped green onions and crispy bacon bits for added texture and flavor.
- Hawaiian Monterey Chicken - Marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger for a tropical twist. Use a combination of Swiss and Monterey Jack cheeses for a milder, creamy flavor. Top the chicken with grilled pineapple rings and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes before serving.
- Mediterranean Monterey Chicken - Season the chicken with a blend of dried oregano, garlic powder, lemon zest, and black pepper. Replace the barbecue sauce with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a spread of sun-dried tomato pesto. Top the chicken with crumbled feta cheese and chopped Kalamata olives. Serve with a side of Mediterranean-inspired couscous or a Greek salad.
- Buffalo Monterey Chicken - Season the chicken with a mixture of buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Use blue cheese crumbles instead of Monterey Jack cheese for that classic buffalo chicken flavor. Serve with a side of celery sticks and a creamy blue cheese dressing.
What To Serve With It
When it comes to serving Monterey Chicken, there are various delicious side dishes that can complement the flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some popular options:
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables - Steamed or roasted vegetables provide a nutritious and simple side dish. Choose vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, or asparagus. Season them with herbs, garlic, or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.
- Fresh Garden Salad - A refreshing garden salad is always a great accompaniment to Monterey Chicken. Toss together a mix of crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and your favorite salad toppings. Dress it with a light vinaigrette or a creamy dressing of your choice.
- Rice or Quinoa- Serve Monterey Chicken with a side of cooked rice or quinoa for a satisfying and filling meal. You can opt for white rice, brown rice, wild rice, or even flavorful variations like cilantro-lime rice or lemon-herb quinoa.
- Baked Potato - Baked potatoes make a hearty and comforting side dish. Serve them with toppings such as sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, or bacon bits. You can also try sweet potatoes for a healthier twist.
- Corn on the Cob- Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic choice to pair with Monterey Chicken. Brush the corn with butter, sprinkle with salt, and cook until tender. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a burst of flavor.
How Long Does It Last?
The shelf life of Monterey Chicken depends on how it has been stored and handled. Here are some general guidelines:
If you have leftovers from a meal that has already been cooked, they should be stored promptly in the refrigerator
Wrap the chicken tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. Leftover Monterey Chicken can typically be consumed within 2-3 days.
Can You Freeze It?
If you’d like to extend the shelf life of Monterey Chicken, you can freeze it. It’s best to freeze the chicken before adding the cheese and barbecue sauce. Wrap each chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe bags.
Frozen Monterey Chicken can be stored for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
More Low Carb Chicken Recipes
- Instant Pot Butter Chicken
- Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
- Keto Tuscan Chicken
- Sesame Ginger Chicken
- Chipotle Chicken
Monterey Chicken | Air Fryer Smothered Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- ▢ 4 chicken breasts
- ▢ 1/2 cup cooked bacon
- ▢ 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- ▢ 1/2 cup Monterey Jack Cheese
- ▢ 1/2 cup Cherry Tomatoes
- ▢ 1 tsp Salt
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Paprika
- ▢ 1/4 cup greenonion
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer - Start by preheating your air fryer to 400F. Preheating ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that desirable crispy exterior.
- Season the Chicken - In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with this flavorful mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Air Fry the Chicken - Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them for proper air circulation. Cook for approximately 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F and the bacon turns crispy.
- Add Cheese, Cherry Tomatoes, and Barbecue Sauce - Once the chicken is cooked, remove the basket from the air fryer and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over each chicken breast. Drizzle the barbecue sauce generously on top of the cheese.
- Air Fry Again - Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Serve and Garnish - Carefully remove the Air Fryer Monterey Chicken from the basket and transfer it to a serving plate. Sprinkle with fresh chopped green onion for an added touch of freshness and vibrant color.
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Monterey Chicken | Air Fryer Smothered Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup Monterey Jack Cheese
- 1/2 cup Cherry Tomatoes
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/4 tsp Paprika
- 1/4 cup greenonion
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer - Start by preheating your air fryer to 400F. Preheating ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that desirable crispy exterior.
- Season the Chicken - In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with this flavorful mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Air Fry the Chicken - Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them for proper air circulation. Cook for approximately 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F and the bacon turns crispy.
- Add Cheese, Cherry Tomatoes, and Barbecue Sauce - Once the chicken is cooked, remove the basket from the air fryer and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over each chicken breast. Drizzle the barbecue sauce generously on top of the cheese.
- Air Fry Again - Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Serve and Garnish - Carefully remove the Air Fryer Monterey Chicken from the basket and transfer it to a serving plate. Sprinkle with fresh chopped green onion for an added touch of freshness and vibrant color.
Monterey Chicken | Air Fryer Smothered Chicken Recipe https://twosleevers.com/monterey-chicken/
Are you ready to add a touch of sweet and spicy magic to your dishes? Look no further than hot honey sauce! This delectable condiment balances the natural sweetness of honey with a fiery kick of heat.
Why You’ll Want To Eat This On Everything
- Fast.
- Easy.
- Delicious.
This sauce is a fantastic way to balance the sweetness of honey with a fiery touch of heat. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create this irresistible condiment to elevate your dishes.
What Is Hot Honey Sauce Made Of?
- Honey
- Hot sauce
- Apple cider vinegar
- Red pepper flakes
What Does Hot Honey Sauce Taste Like?
Overall, honey hot sauce offers a harmonious balance between sweet and spicy flavors, with a hint of tanginess. The exact taste will depend on the specific ingredients and proportions used, allowing for customization based on individual preferences. It is a condiment that adds a unique and delicious twist to various culinary creations.
How To Make Hot Honey Sauce
- Combine Honey and Hot Sauce. In a small saucepan, pour the honey and add the hot sauce. Choose a hot sauce that suits your spice tolerance, such as sriracha, Frank’s RedHot, or your personal favorite. Stir well to ensure the honey and hot sauce are thoroughly combined.
- Add Apple Cider Vinegar. Next, add the apple cider vinegar to the saucepan. The vinegar will add a tangy note that complements the sweetness and heat of the sauce. Stir to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.
- Boost the Heat. For those seeking an extra fiery kick, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. This optional addition will intensify the heat level of your sauce. Stir gently to distribute the flakes throughout the mixture.
- Simmer and Reduce. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering process helps the flavors meld together and allows the sauce to reduce slightly, resulting in a thicker consistenc
Tips And Tricks
When making this homemade honey hot sauce, here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve the best results:
- Adjust the Heat Level. Customize the spiciness of the sauce by choosing a hot sauce that matches your heat preference. Experiment with different hot sauces, such as sriracha, Tabasco, or chipotle, to find the perfect balance of heat for your taste buds.
- Honey Selection. Choose a high-quality honey that you enjoy the taste of, as it will greatly impact the overall flavor of the sauce. Consider using raw or local honey for a more distinctive and flavorful experience.
- Balancing Sweetness and Heat. Start with a smaller amount of hot sauce and gradually increase it to achieve the desired level of spiciness. Keep in mind that the sweetness of the honey should still shine through, so aim for a harmonious balance between sweetness and heat.
Variations
Hot honey sauce is a versatile condiment that lends itself to various flavor variations. Here are some exciting variations you can try to customize your hot honey sauce:
Citrus Twist- Add a burst of citrus flavor by incorporating the zest and juice of a lemon, lime, or orange into the sauce. The citrusy notes provide a bright and refreshing element that complements the heat and sweetness.
Smoky Chipotle- Infuse your sauce with a smoky undertone by adding a small amount of chipotle powder or adobo sauce. This variation adds a unique and slightly earthy flavor that pairs well with grilled meats and roasted vegetables.
Garlic Lover’s Dream - For garlic enthusiasts, infuse your hot honey sauce with the rich and pungent flavor of garlic. Finely mince or grate fresh garlic cloves and sauté them briefly in a little oil before adding them to the sauce.
Asian Influence - Give your sauce an Asian-inspired twist by incorporating ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. These additions bring umami flavors and a touch of acidity that pair well with stir-fries, dumplings, or Asian-inspired chicken dishes.
What To Eat It On
Hot honey sauce is a versatile condiment that can enhance the flavor of various dishes. Here are some delicious options for enjoying hot honey sauce:
- Fried Chicken - Drizzle it over crispy fried chicken for a mouthwatering combination of sweet and spicy flavors. The sauce adds a sticky glaze and a delightful kick to the chicken.
- Pizza - Add a drizzle of sauce to your favorite pizza for a sweet and spicy twist. The combination of the sauce with the savory toppings and cheese creates a tantalizing flavor contrast.
- Grilled Meats - Brush it onto grilled meats such as chicken, pork, or even steak. The heat from the grill caramelizes the sauce, creating a sticky and flavorful glaze.
- Charcuterie Board - Use it as a condiment on a charcuterie board. Drizzle it over cured meats, such as prosciutto or salami, and pair it with cheeses, fruits, and nuts. The sweet and spicy flavors complement the various elements of the board.
- Roasted Vegetables - Toss roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes in this sauce before roasting. The sauce caramelizes during cooking, adding a delightful glaze and a touch of heat to the veggies.
- Chicken Wings - Toss crispy chicken wings in honey hot sauce for a finger-licking treat. The combination of the sticky sauce with the crispy skin creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
How Long Does It Last?
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the hot honey sauce cool completely. As it cools, it will thicken slightly. Once cooled, transfer the sauce to a jar or airtight container for storage.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, you can freeze this sweet and spicy sauce for longer storage. Freezing it can help prolong its shelf life and maintain its flavor.
It’s worth noting that freezing can slightly alter the texture of sweet and spicy sauce, causing it to thicken or become grainy. However, this shouldn’t affect its taste or usability. Frozen honey hot sauce can be stored in the freezer for up to 3-4 months.
More Awesome Sauce Recipes
- Big Mac Sauce
- Keto Ranch Dressing
- Keto Alfredo Sauce
- Baja Sauce
- Japanese BBQ Sauce
Hot Honey Sauce | Homemade Honey Hot Sauce
Ingredients
- ▢ 1/2 cup honey
- ▢ 1/4 cup hot sauce
- ▢ 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ▢ 1 tbsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Combine Honey and Hot Sauce. In a small saucepan, pour the honey and add the hot sauce. Choose a hot sauce that suits your spice tolerance, such as sriracha, Frank’s RedHot, or your personal favorite. Stir well to ensure the honey and hot sauce are thoroughly combined.
- Add Apple Cider Vinegar. Next, add the apple cider vinegar to the saucepan. The vinegar will add a tangy note that complements the sweetness and heat of the sauce. Stir to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.
- Boost the Heat. For those seeking an extra fiery kick, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. This optional addition will intensify the heat level of your sauce. Stir gently to distribute the flakes throughout the mixture.
- Simmer and Reduce . Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering process helps the flavors meld together and allows the sauce to reduce slightly, resulting in a thicker consistency.
