Air Fryer Monterey Chicken

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1. Prepare the Chicken

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
    • Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
  2. Season the Chicken:
    • Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
  3. Spray with Olive Oil:
    • Lightly spray the chicken breasts with olive oil to help them stay moist during cooking.

2. Cook the Chicken

  1. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
    • Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching.
  2. Air Fry:
    • Cook the chicken at 380°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

3. Add Toppings

  1. Add Barbecue Sauce:
    • Brush the cooked chicken breasts with barbecue sauce.
  2. Add Cheese and Bacon:
    • Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese over each chicken breast. Place two slices of crispy bacon on top of the cheese.

4. Melt the Cheese

  1. Air Fry Again:
    • Return the topped chicken breasts to the air fryer and cook at 380°F (190°C) for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Garnish and Serve

  1. Add Fresh Toppings:
    • Remove the chicken from the air fryer and place on a serving plate. Top with thinly sliced red onions and diced tomatoes.
  2. Garnish:
    • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for added flavor and color.
  3. Serve:
    • Serve the Air Fryer Monterey Chicken hot, with your favorite sides like a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Monterey Chicken

  • Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken breasts are of similar size and thickness for even cooking. Pound them to an even thickness if necessary.
  • Crispy Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy to add a nice texture contrast to the dish.
  • Cheese Choices: Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar for added flavor.

Variations to Try

  • Spicy Monterey Chicken: Add sliced jalapeños on top for a spicy kick.
  • Hawaiian Style: Add pineapple slices on top of the cheese for a sweet and savory twist.
  • Herb Infused: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the barbecue sauce for added depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Monterey Chicken is a delicious and easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its juicy chicken, smoky bacon, melted cheese, and tangy barbecue sauce, it’s sure to be a hit.

Key Takeaway

The secret to perfect Air Fryer Monterey Chicken lies in cooking the chicken to the right temperature and adding flavorful toppings. By following this guide, you’ll create a delicious and satisfying meal every time.

We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Enjoy your Air Fryer Monterey Chicken!

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