Air Fryer Monterey Chicken

Indulge in the flavorful delight of Air Fryer Monterey Chicken, a tasty dish that combines tender chicken breasts with BBQ sauce, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh toppings. This simple and hassle-free recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious weekend treat.

Why Make This Recipe

Air Fryer Monterey Chicken is a fantastic recipe to try because it’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and cooks up quickly in the air fryer. The combination of smoky BBQ flavors, gooey melted cheese, and crunchy bacon creates a mouthwatering dish that will satisfy your taste buds.

How to Make Air Fryer Monterey Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts (boneless & skinless)
• 6 cups warm water
• 3 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1-2 tablespoons BBQ dry rub
• 1/4 cup prepared BBQ sauce
• 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 4 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons diced green onions

Directions:

1. Fill a bowl with warm water, add salt, and stir to combine.
2. Brine chicken breasts in the salty water in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
3. Remove chicken from the brine, pat dry, and season with BBQ dry rub.
4. Spritz air fryer basket with oil, place chicken in an even layer, and air fry at 380°F for 7 minutes.
5. Brush BBQ sauce over chicken, flip, and brush with more sauce. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of chicken, let sit in the air fryer to melt.
7. Top with bacon, tomatoes, and green onions before serving.

How to Serve Air Fryer Monterey Chicken

Serve the Air Fryer Monterey Chicken hot and fresh, garnished with extra BBQ sauce and a sprinkle of green onions for added flavor. Pair it with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.

How to Store Air Fryer Monterey Chicken

Store any leftover Air Fryer Monterey Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to maintain the crispy texture.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Monterey Chicken

• Ensure the chicken breasts are of similar size for even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
• Experiment with different cheese blends or BBQ sauces for a unique twist.

Variation

For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce on top of the melted cheese before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe? It’s recommended to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking and better flavor absorption.
2. Can I make this recipe without bacon? Yes, you can omit the bacon for a lighter version of the dish.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Feel free to swap Colby Jack cheese with cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese for a personalized touch.