Crock Pot Monterey Chicken
Introduction
Crock Pot Monterey Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with savory barbecue sauce and melty cheese. It’s an easy-to-make meal perfect for busy days or family gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a hearty and flavorful dinner with minimal effort.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Crock Pot Monterey Chicken is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. You just need to toss everything into the Crock Pot and let it do the work for you. Second, this dish is full of delicious flavors that everyone will love. The combination of barbecue sauce, cheese, and bacon creates a satisfying meal. Finally, it’s perfect for leftovers, making your weeknight dinners even easier.
How to Make Crock Pot Monterey Chicken
Making Crock Pot Monterey Chicken is a breeze. Just follow these simple steps:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 5-6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
Directions
- Place the chicken breasts in the Crock Pot.
- Pour the barbecue sauce over the chicken and add the sliced onion.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and cover until melted.
- Top with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions before serving.
How to Serve Crock Pot Monterey Chicken
Crock Pot Monterey Chicken is best served hot. You can place it on a plate on its own or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes. Adding a side salad or some steamed vegetables can complete the meal. Don’t forget to garnish with extra green onions for a pop of color!
How to Store Crock Pot Monterey Chicken
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay good for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later. To freeze, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container and label it with the date. You can enjoy it later, but try to eat it within three months for the best flavor.
Tips to Make Crock Pot Monterey Chicken
- For added flavor, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding the barbecue sauce.
- Use different types of cheese to mix things up. Pepper Jack can add a nice kick!
- If you like a little crunch, add some chopped bell peppers or jalapeños with the onion.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe. Try using different proteins, like pork or turkey, instead of chicken. You can also switch the barbecue sauce for teriyaki sauce for a different twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time to about 8-10 hours on low.
Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
A: Yes! You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or jackfruit to make it vegetarian.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a traditional oven?
A: Yes, you can bake it at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, then top with cheese and bake until melted.
