Creamy Chicken Monterey: tender chicken in garlic butter, topped with cheddar & Monterey Jack cheese. Perfect for family dinners! #ChickenMonterey #CheesyDinner
- Pico de gallo (tropical fruit salsa, adds flavor)
- Lettuce leaves (leafy green vegetable, nutritious)
- Fresh cilantro (herb for garnish, aromatic)
- Tortilla chips or soft tortillas (bread option, serves as base)
- Olive oil (cooking oil, healthy fat)
- Salt and pepper (seasoning, enhances taste)
- Hot sauce (optional, spiciness enhancer)
Advertisement
Steps
### How to Make Delicious Chicken Monterey: A Step-by-Step Guide
Chicken Monterey is a popular Southern American dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, savory cheese sauce. Follow these detailed steps to create this delightful meal using SEO-friendly formatting:
#### **Ingredients:**
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (about 8 oz)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup milk
- Fresh parsley for garnish
#### **Instructions:**
##### **Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces or slices, depending on your preference.
##### **Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce**
4. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
5. Add the flour and garlic powder to the pan; stir for about 1 minute until well combined and slightly golden.
6. Gradually pour in the milk while continuously stirring to ensure no lumps form.
7. Once the mixture is smooth, continue cooking and stirring until it thickens into a creamy sauce.
##### **Step 3: Cook the Chicken**
8. Place the chicken pieces in an oven-safe dish.
9. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the chicken, ensuring even coverage.
10. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top.
##### **Step 4: Bake and Serve**
11. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese has melted and slightly browned.
12. Remove from oven, uncover, and let sit for a few minutes before serving.
##### **Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy**
13. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to enhance the presentation and flavor.
14. Serve hot as an entree or side dish, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
#### **Tips for Success**
- **Use Quality Ingredients:** Fresh, high-quality chicken and cheddar cheese will significantly impact the taste of your dish.
- **Adjust Seasonings:** Feel free to add a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper if you prefer more heat.
- **Leftovers:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently until warm.