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Juicy Baked Monterey Chicken - featured image

Juicy Baked Monterey Chicken


  • Author: abigail_patterson
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A healthy, high-protein, low-carb dinner made with just four main ingredients. This recipe features tender chicken breasts topped with a creamy mixture of Monterey Jack cheese, green chiles, and sour cream or Greek yogurt, baked to perfection for a moist and flavorful meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
  • 4 oz diced green chiles, drained
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or full-fat plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Sea salt and black pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Let chicken breasts sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. Place chicken breasts on a cutting board and pound to an even ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
  3. Season both sides of the chicken generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder.
  4. Lightly grease an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
  5. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the baking dish.
  6. In a small bowl, mix the grated Monterey Jack cheese, drained green chiles, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until a thick paste forms.
  7. Spoon the cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast, spreading it to the edges to cover completely.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If the cheese browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

For best results, grate your own cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures uniform cooking and prevents dry spots. This recipe is naturally gluten-free; ensure your cheese and chiles are certified gluten-free if necessary.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast wit
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 1
  • Sodium: 450
  • Fat: 15
  • Saturated Fat: 8
  • Carbohydrates: 3
  • Protein: 30

Keywords: monterey chicken, baked chicken, healthy dinner, low carb, high protein, easy weeknight dinner, gluten free, meal prep