Monterey Chicken with Bacon (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 - 1 teaspoon paprika
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/2 teaspoon pepper
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
07 - 1 cup barbecue sauce
08 - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
09 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
10 - 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
11 - 1 large tomato, diced
12 - 1/4 cup sliced green onions

# Instructions:

01 - Place the chicken breasts between two layers of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness. Pat dry, then season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
02 - Warm olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes. Flip the chicken and brush the tops with barbecue sauce. Cook the second side for 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
03 - After flipping the chicken the first time, preheat the broiler to medium-high.
04 - Flip the cooked chicken one more time and brush generously with more barbecue sauce. Divide the cheese between each chicken breast. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the skillet from the oven and let rest for a few minutes.
05 - Serve hot with crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, and green onions on top. Enjoy!

# Notes:

01 - Flatten the chicken for quicker and more even cooking.
02 - Cook the bacon first in the skillet, then use the leftover grease for cooking the chicken.
03 - Use an oven-safe skillet to easily transition between stovetop and oven. If unavailable, transfer the chicken to a baking dish before broiling.