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High Protein Monterey Chicken - Juicy, Cheesy, and Easy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 small to medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5–2 pounds total)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 4 slices bacon (or turkey bacon)
  • 1/3–1/2 cup reduced-sugar barbecue sauce
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Colby Jack cheese
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Optional: chopped cilantro, jalapeño slices, or a squeeze of lime

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat chicken dry. If thick, slice horizontally to create even cutlets or gently pound to an even 1/2–3/4 inch thickness for faster, juicier cooking.
  2. Season well: In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub evenly over both sides of the chicken.
  3. Crisp the bacon: In a large oven-safe skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate. Drain all but 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat from the skillet.
  4. Sear the chicken: Add a splash of oil if needed. Sear chicken over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. You’re looking for color, not fully cooked through.
  5. Preheat and sauce: Heat oven to 400°F (205°C). Brush the tops of the chicken with barbecue sauce. Don’t drown it—just a generous, even coat.
  6. Top with bacon and cheese: Crumble or chop the bacon. Divide it over the chicken, then sprinkle on the shredded cheese.
  7. Bake to finish: Transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake 6–10 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Fresh toppings: Remove from the oven and let rest 3 minutes. Top with diced tomato and green onions. Add cilantro or jalapeño if you like a kick.
  9. Serve: Pair with a simple side like roasted broccoli, a green salad, or cauliflower rice for a high-protein, lower-carb plate.