Description
This 20-Minute Skillet Monterey Chicken is a quick and flavorful American main course perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy boneless, skinless chicken breasts are seasoned and seared to golden perfection, then simmered with sautéed vegetables and topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese and crisp bacon. Ready in just 20 minutes, it pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a simple salad for a satisfying and cheesy dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables & Toppings
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Cheese & Garnish
- 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and evenly season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika to enhance flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they achieve a golden brown crust and are cooked through.
- Remove chicken and sauté vegetables: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside. In the same skillet, add mushrooms (if using), diced green and red bell peppers, onion, and the minced garlic. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to blend the flavors and slightly reduce the liquid.
- Return chicken and add toppings: Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet. Evenly top each breast with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and sprinkle with crumbled bacon if using.
- Melt the cheese: Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt fully and meld with the chicken and vegetables.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the lid, garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve hot with your choice of sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal.
- You can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar or mozzarella for variation.
- For a lower-fat option, omit the bacon or use turkey bacon.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
