Monterey Jack Unfried Chicken

The moment I discovered the Monterey Jack Unfried Chicken recipe, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. Imagine the crispy exterior of fried chicken, but without the guilt that often comes with it. I remember the first time I made this dish. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted to create a comforting meal that felt indulgent yet wholesome. My family gathered around the table, their faces lighting up as the aroma wafted through our home. It turned out to be a hit, with juicy chicken cutlets topped with a crunchy panko crust and a creamy layer of cheese. The best part? I didn’t have to deal with splattering oil, making clean-up a breeze. Flipping through my recipe book, I can still hear their laughter and see their delighted expressions as they took their first bites. The combination of flavors is so satisfying, from the tangy ranch seasoning to the fresh pico de gallo that adds a burst of freshness. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this dish always brings everyone together.

Ingredient List for Monterey Jack Unfried Chicken

Let’s talk about the ingredients that make the Monterey Jack Unfried Chicken such a delight. Each component plays a significant role in creating a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. The key players, including chicken, panko breadcrumbs, and Monterey Jack cheese, work harmoniously to deliver a meal that appeals to all the senses. When combined, these ingredients offer both texture and flavor that make every bite enjoyable.

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast: Cut into thin cutlets, these tender pieces of chicken are the star of the dish, providing a juicy and satisfying base.
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: This adds a rich, creamy layer that helps the breadcrumbs adhere while enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper: Simple yet essential, these seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and balance the dish.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Used for melting and mixing with the breadcrumbs, it contributes to the golden, crispy topping.
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs create a light and crispy crust that elevates the texture of the dish.
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning: This adds a zesty flavor that perfectly complements the chicken and brings everything together.
• 4 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully on top, lending a creamy richness and a delightful taste that everyone loves.
• 1 cup pico de gallo: Fresh and vibrant, this topping adds a burst of flavor and freshness that brightens the entire dish.

Directions for Monterey Jack Unfried Chicken

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into how to bring this dish to life! The process is quite enjoyable, and I promise, it’s easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a plate of delicious Monterey Jack Unfried Chicken to wow your friends and family.

1. Preheat your oven to 425˚F. This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and develop that lovely crispy exterior.
2. Season each side of the chicken cutlets generously with salt and pepper. This simple step is crucial for building flavor right from the start.
3. Lay the seasoned cutlets flat on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded, allowing for proper cooking.
4. Spread a very thin coating of mayonnaise on the top side of each chicken breast. This will help the breadcrumbs stick and add a delightful creaminess.
5. In a medium bowl, melt the butter. You can do this in the microwave or on the stove, just be careful not to burn it.
6. Mix in the panko bread crumbs and ranch seasoning, stirring until everything is evenly combined. The mixture should be crumbly and fragrant.
7. Stir in the Monterey Jack cheese, allowing it to melt slightly into the breadcrumb mixture, enhancing the flavor.
8. Spoon the panko topping generously over each chicken breast, ensuring they are well covered. This is where the magic happens; the topping will create a lovely crust.
9. Bake on the top rack in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165˚F. You’ll want to watch for a beautiful golden-brown color on the crust.
10. Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and top each piece with a scoop of pico de gallo. This fresh addition will elevate your dish and add a refreshing flavor.
11. Serve immediately and enjoy the compliments from your family and friends!

Ways to Customize

The Monterey Jack Unfried Chicken is a versatile dish, and there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Whether you want to add a twist of flavor or adjust the ingredients for dietary preferences, here are some creative ideas to consider.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. This makes for a great quick lunch!
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to three months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
• Pairing: Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Spice it Up: If you enjoy heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños to the pico de gallo.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Different Proteins: This recipe is also great with turkey or even fish for a lighter option.

How to Serve Monterey Jack Unfried Chicken

Serving the Monterey Jack Unfried Chicken is all about creating a wonderful dining experience. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game:

• Plate Presentation: Place the chicken on a plate with a scoop of pico de gallo on top for a beautiful presentation.
• Side Dishes: Pair it with roasted vegetables or a light salad to keep the meal fresh and balanced.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual dinners, family gatherings, or even during the holidays when you’re looking for a twist on traditional fare.
• Serving Temperature: Enjoy the chicken hot out of the oven for the best taste and texture.
• Storage Options: If you have leftovers, store them properly to maintain their deliciousness.
• Leftover Creativity: Use the leftover chicken in sandwiches or salads for a quick meal the next day.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Monterey Jack Unfried Chicken is a delightful twist on a classic favorite that brings comfort and joy to the table. It’s easy to prepare, deliciously satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it a part of your family’s meal rotation. You won’t be disappointed!

Monterey Jack Unfried Chicken

The ultimate comfort food without the guilt! Monterey Jack Unfried Chicken is a crispy, cheesy delight that will satisfy your cravings. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 14 minutes mins

Total Time 24 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast Cut into thin cutlets
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• salt and pepper salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons butter for melting
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
• 4 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup pico de gallo

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 425˚F.
• Season chicken cutlets on each side with salt and pepper. Then lay them flat on a baking sheet. Spread a very thin coating of mayonnaise on the top side of each chicken breast.
• In a medium bowl, melt the butter. Mix in the panko bread crumbs and ranch seasoning and stir until combined. Then stir in the Monterey Jack cheese.
• Spoon the panko topping over each chicken breast to cover the top of the chicken.
• Bake on the top rack for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, 165˚F internal temp.
• Remove the chicken from the oven and top with a scoop of pico de gallo. Serve immediately. Enjoy!

Notes

• Chicken: Substitute chicken tenders (reduce the cooking time to account for smaller pieces of chicken).
• Panko breadcrumbs: Swap in gluten-free Panko for GF chicken.
• Monterey Jack cheese: Cheddar or Parmesan are both good substitutes.
• How to Store: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• How to Reheat: This can be reheated in the microwave in 30-second increments, or cover with tin foil and place into the oven to reheat.
• How to Scale: This recipe can easily be doubled if you are feeding a crowd or halved for smaller portions.

Keyword baked chicken dinner, Easy Chicken Recipes, Monterey Jack chicken, unfried chicken recipe

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Meet Hanna Hart

I am obsessed with the “how” and “why” of cooking. It doesn’t matter if we are roasting a chicken or baking brownies; I am the one double-checking our measurements and cooking times. I love working on every type of cuisine and finding the absolute best method to get the results we want. I treat every recipe with the same level of care and dedication.