There’s something special about Bonanza Chicken Monterey that always draws us in. We love how it’s topped with sizzling cheese and crisp bacon for an irresistible mix of flavors. It’s the kind of dish that never disappoints.
We trace its roots to hearty family style cooking that keeps everyone satisfied. Our version delivers juicy chicken coated in a tangy sauce and crowned with melted cheese. We can’t wait to share our tips for making this easy crowd pleaser at home so you can treat your loved ones to a comforting meal.
Bonanza Chicken Monterey Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- ½ cup tangy sauce (our favorite barbecue blend)
- 4 slices crisp bacon (cooked)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
Cooking Times
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Oven Preheat | 375°F (190°C) |
| Bake Time | 20 to 25 minutes |
Instructions
- We coat the chicken breasts lightly with the vegetable oil then we sprinkle salt and black pepper on all sides.
- We place each chicken breast in a baking dish then we brush the tangy sauce evenly on top.
- We slide the dish into the oven and allow the chicken to bake for 20 to 25 minutes. We check for doneness with an instant-read thermometer.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked we remove the dish from the oven. We layer Monterey Jack cheese cheddar cheese and crisp bacon on top of each piece then we return the dish to the oven.
- We bake until the cheese turns sizzling and melted. We garnish with green onions before serving for an extra burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Here are the must-have items for our Bonanza Chicken Monterey. We rely on fresh spices and a tangy marinade to give each bite bold flavor.
Chicken And Marinade
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup barbecue sauce or tangy marinade
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
| Marinade Step | Duration |
|---|---|
| Minimum marinade | 30 minutes |
| Maximum marinade | 2 hours |
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 green onions chopped (optional for garnish)
Equipment
We set up our workspace with essential tools that help us prepare Bonanza Chicken Monterey quickly. We keep these items within reach to streamline each step:
- Cutting board and sharp knife
We use these for slicing the boneless chicken breasts and prepping any garnishes.
- Mixing bowl
We whisk our marinade in a sturdy bowl to ensure the chicken soaks up every drop of flavor.
- Measuring cups and measuring spoons
We rely on these for accurate spice blends and sauce measurements.
- Whisk or fork
We combine our marinade ingredients until smooth.
- 9-by-13-inch baking dish
We arrange our marinated chicken in a single layer. Then we add cheese and other toppings later in the baking process.
- Foil
We may cover the dish if the cheese browns too quickly.
- Tongs or long-handled spatula
We use these to turn the chicken if needed and serve it neatly.
| Equipment | Dimensions or Quantity |
|---|---|
| Baking dish | 9 by 13 inches |
| Mixing bowl | 1 large |
| Measuring cups | 1 set |
| Measuring spoons | 1 set |
Directions
We move from marinating to cooking to layering cheese in order to create a savory presentation. Each step highlights the flavors of Bonanza Chicken Monterey.
Prep The Chicken
We trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and pat them dry. We place them in a shallow dish. We pour the tangy marinade over the chicken to coat each piece thoroughly. We cover the dish and rest the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours. This soak helps develop deep flavor.
| Marinade Time |
|---|
| Minimum: 30 minutes |
| Maximum: 2 hours |
Cook The Chicken
We preheat the oven to 375°F. We remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off the excess. We lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish and arrange the chicken in a single layer. We bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
| Bake Duration | Internal Temp |
|---|---|
| 20-25 minutes | 165°F |
Assemble And Melt
We remove the chicken from the oven and top each breast with Monterey Jack and Cheddar. We add any crumbled bacon for extra crisp texture. We return the dish to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly. We can broil briefly for a golden finish. We sprinkle sliced green onions on top for freshness. Then we serve this cheesy goodness while it is still hot.
Serving Suggestions
We love pairing Bonanza Chicken Monterey with robust sides and fresh vegetables for a balanced meal. One of our favorite ways to serve it is with mashed potatoes and roasted carrots. We also drizzle any extra sauce onto the side for a bright tang. For a lighter option we might serve it with a crisp garden salad and warm bread rolls.
Below is a quick reference table of our top side dish ideas:
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Preparation Method |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy and buttery | Boil potatoes then mash them with butter milk and a pinch of salt |
| Roasted Carrots | Soft and sweet | Toss sliced carrots in olive oil pepper and thyme then roast at 400°F for 20 minutes |
| Crisp Garden Salad | Fresh and bright | Combine lettuce cucumbers and cherry tomatoes then drizzle with a light dressing |
If we have any leftovers we like slicing the chicken and layering it into sandwiches with lettuce and tomato. We can also dice the remaining chicken for a hearty burrito bowl or incorporate it into a cheesy pasta bake.
Conclusion
We love how simple this dish is to put together and how it never fails to satisfy. It’s a fantastic addition to any mealtime routine and brings everyone around the table with big smiles. With the right ingredients and a little preparation it’s sure to become a go to favorite that truly stands out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bonanza Chicken Monterey?
Bonanza Chicken Monterey is a flavorful dish made with juicy chicken marinated in a tangy sauce, then baked and topped with melted Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses plus crisp bacon. This classic family-style recipe creates a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours. This window allows the tangy flavors to fully develop without overpowering the chicken. Any longer, and the meat may become overly tender or mushy.
Which ingredients are absolutely essential?
You’ll need boneless chicken breasts, a tangy marinade (like a mixture of spices, oil, and an acidic component), shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses, bacon, and optional green onions for garnish. These key ingredients ensure you get the full flavor and signature cheesy-bacon finish.
What tools do I need to prepare it?
Have a cutting board, a sharp knife, a mixing bowl, measuring cups/spoons, a 9×13-inch baking dish, and some foil. Also keep tongs or a spatula handy for turning and serving the chicken. Having these tools ready streamlines the cooking and cleanup process.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Bake the chicken at 375°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken. The juices should run clear, and the meat should appear white, not pink.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Serve Bonanza Chicken Monterey with hearty sides like mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or a crisp garden salad. For a lighter option, add steamed vegetables or warm bread rolls. Drizzle leftover sauce on the side for extra tanginess.
Are there any creative ways to use leftovers?
Slice the leftover chicken and layer it into sandwiches with fresh greens or add it to burrito bowls for extra protein. You can also incorporate it into pasta bakes by chopping it up, tossing it with cheese, and baking until bubbly.