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Crock Pot Monterey Chicken Recipe

Crock Pot Monterey Chicken Recipe

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Jump to Recipe· 4.6 from 79 reviews

If you’re like me and love a hands-off yet seriously tasty dinner, this Crock Pot Monterey Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s packed with smoky, cheesy, and saucy goodness, and the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting for you. Whether you’re tackling a busy weeknight or want a relaxing weekend meal, you’ll find this recipe incredibly easy and delicious—plus my family literally goes crazy for it every single time.

❤️

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless Prep: You just season, sear, and then let your slow cooker do the magic while you relax.
  • Flavor Packed: Smoky paprika, zesty tomatoes with green chiles, and melty cheese come together in perfect harmony.
  • Family Favorite: The combination of cheesy, bacon-topped chicken pleases even the pickiest eaters in my house.
  • Versatile Serving: It’s great on its own or with your favorite sides, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
On a white plate placed on a white marbled surface, there is a base layer of smooth, creamy mashed potatoes colored pale off-white. On top of the mashed potatoes are two grilled chicken pieces with golden-brown, slightly charred skin. The chicken is covered with a generous layer of melted yellow and white cheese, which looks soft and slightly stretchy. Scattered over the cheese are small pieces of red tomato and crispy bacon bits, along with chopped bright green onions for a fresh touch. Alongside the chicken and potatoes, there are whole, vibrant green beans arranged neatly on one side of the plate. The image is well lit and clear, showing the textures vividly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Crock Pot Monterey Chicken, slow cooker Monterey chicken, cheesy chicken crock pot, easy Monterey chicken recipe, smoky chicken dinner this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together beautifully because they build layers of flavor while keeping things simple. A few pantry staples, some fresh touches, and BBQ sauce bring all the magic here.

Flat lay of four raw boneless skinless chicken breasts, a small white bowl of bright red smoky paprika powder, a small white bowl of pale beige garlic powder, a small white bowl of light tan onion powder, a small white bowl of coarse black pepper, a small white bowl of fine sea salt, a small white bowl filled with glossy deep reddish-brown BBQ sauce, a small white bowl with drained diced tomatoes with green chiles, four crisp cooked bacon slices crumbled artfully, four rectangular slices of creamy pale yellow colby jack cheese, one ripe red tomato diced, and four fresh green onions sliced, all arranged in perfect symmetry on simple white ceramic dishes, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Crock Pot Monterey Chicken, slow cooker Monterey chicken, cheesy chicken crock pot, easy Monterey chicken recipe, smoky chicken dinner
  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Look for evenly sized pieces so they cook through at the same rate.
  • Garlic powder: Adds just the right hint of savory depth without overpowering.
  • Onion powder: A great base flavor that complements the smoky paprika.
  • Smoked paprika: I love this ingredient—it’s what gives the dish that characteristic smoky touch that pairs so well with the BBQ sauce.
  • Pepper and salt: Keeps the seasoning balanced; adjust to taste but I stick close to the recipe.
  • BBQ sauce: Use your favorite kind here; I prefer a slightly sweet and tangy sauce that isn’t too spicy.
  • Can of tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel): Adds brightness and just enough kick to make it interesting.
  • Bacon slices: Cooked and crumbled—because who doesn’t want crispy bacon topping their chicken?
  • Colby jack cheese slices: Melts beautifully on top and adds creamy richness.
  • Fresh tomato, diced: A cool fresh touch to balance all the warm spices and sauce.
  • Green onions, diced: I use these for a fresh, sharp bite and a pop of color at the end.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love that this Crock Pot Monterey Chicken Recipe is easy to tweak based on what you have or your taste preferences. I’ve tried a few different spins over time, and you might find your own favorites.

  • Spicy Kick: Adding a diced jalapeño or using a spicy BBQ sauce really amps up the heat for those who love bold flavors—I did this once and everyone asked for the recipe again!
  • Dairy-Free: Simply skip the cheese or swap in a vegan cheese alternative; the bacon and BBQ punch keep it flavorful without missing a beat.
  • Vegetable Boost: Toss in sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even corn to sneak in some veggies and add texture.
  • Different Cheeses: Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even pepper jack cheese work great here if you want to change up the melt and flavor profile.

How to Make Crock Pot Monterey Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Season and Brown the Chicken

This step elevates the flavor in such a simple way—season the chicken evenly with the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. I pat the chicken dry first with paper towels, which helps the seasoning stick better and promotes browning. Then, over medium-high heat, quickly sear each side for about 2 minutes. You’re not cooking through here, just developing that beautiful color and added depth. Don’t skip this—it makes a noticeable difference in the final dish.

Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Once your chicken is browned, place it in a 5 to 6-quart slow cooker. Pour half of the BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken to keep it moist and flavorful. Then spread the drained tomatoes with green chiles on top. This combo cooks down into a tangy, smoky sauce that’s just amazing. Cover and set your slow cooker to low for 4 to 6 hours. Cooking on low is ideal here as it keeps the chicken tender and juicy without drying out.

Step 3: Cheese, Bacon & Final Touches

After the chicken hits the safe internal temperature of 165°F, spoon over the remaining BBQ sauce, then place a slice of Colby jack cheese on each breast. Sprinkle the bacon, diced tomatoes, and green onions over the top. Cover again and let it go for another 10 minutes or until the cheese melts perfectly. The smells here alone will have you rushing to the table!

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Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Monterey Chicken Recipe

  • Even Chicken Thickness: I like to pound my chicken breasts gently so they cook evenly; it prevents dry edges and juicy middles.
  • Browning Is Key: Don’t rush this step—those two minutes per side add amazing flavor that slow cooking alone can’t replicate.
  • Don’t Overcook: Start checking the chicken at 4 hours on low to avoid drying it out; every slow cooker runs a bit differently.
  • Add Bacon Last: Putting bacon on at the very end ensures it stays crispy rather than soggy in the sauce.

How to Serve Crock Pot Monterey Chicken Recipe

Inside a white slow cooker, there are several browned cooked chicken pieces arranged at the bottom covered with a reddish sauce. On top of the chicken, there are three square slices of melted yellow and white cheese with small bits of crispy brown bacon and diced red tomatoes scattered over them. Fresh green chopped onions are sprinkled around the cheese and chicken, adding a pop of color. The slow cooker sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Crock Pot Monterey Chicken, slow cooker Monterey chicken, cheesy chicken crock pot, easy Monterey chicken recipe, smoky chicken dinner

Garnishes

I usually finish my Monterey Chicken with extra diced green onions and fresh tomato to add brightness and a little crunch that cuts through the richness. Sometimes I sprinkle a touch of fresh cilantro for a pop of herbal freshness. It’s honestly those little touches that make it look and taste restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

My family loves this with simple sides like garlic mashed potatoes or creamy coleslaw. I’ve also served it over rice or even with roasted veggies when we want a lower-carb option. Some buttered corn on the cob alongside makes it feel like a full summer feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at parties, I’ve shredded the cooked chicken and spooned it into slider buns with extra BBQ sauce and cheese melted on top. It also works well layered into nachos or even stuffed into bell peppers with a little extra cheese and baked briefly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover Crock Pot Monterey Chicken in airtight containers in the fridge. It stays delicious for about 3-4 days, and the flavors deepen overnight. I usually separate the chicken from any fresh garnishes before storing to keep things crisp.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. I portion the chicken with sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. The cheese toppings can be added fresh after reheating if you want to preserve their texture.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to keep things moist. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the chicken from drying out. Adding fresh cheese and bacon when reheating helps refresh the dish.

FAQs

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in this Crock Pot Monterey Chicken Recipe?

    Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in this recipe and tend to stay even juicier during slow cooking. You might want to reduce cooking time slightly though, since thighs can cook faster and you don’t want them to become too soft.

  2. Do I need to brown the chicken before adding it to the Crock Pot?

    I highly recommend browning the chicken first to add depth of flavor and a slight crispness that slow cooking alone can’t give you. It only takes a few minutes and really improves the final dish.

  3. What if I don’t have a slow cooker—can I make this recipe on the stove?

    You can simmer the ingredients gently on the stove covered, but you’ll need to watch the chicken carefully and possibly add some extra liquid. Cooking time will be shorter, likely around 30-40 minutes depending on thickness. Just keep the heat low to avoid drying out the chicken.

  4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

    Yes! Just choose a gluten-free BBQ sauce and make sure your canned tomatoes with green chiles don’t contain any gluten-containing additives. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

  5. How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too watery?

    If your sauce feels thin after cooking, you can remove the chicken, then simmer the sauce on the stove to reduce it slightly or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) to thicken it up quickly.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Monterey Chicken Recipe is truly a gem in my meal rotation because it’s cozy, flavorful, and hands-off. I love sharing it because it feels special without being complicated, and it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that feels like you made so much more work than you actually did. If you give it a try, I bet it will become one of your favorite slow cooker meals too—you’re gonna love how the flavors come together with minimal effort!

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Crock Pot Monterey Chicken Recipe

Crock Pot Monterey Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 79 reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

Crock Pot Monterey Chicken is a flavorful, slow-cooked dish featuring seasoned boneless skinless chicken breasts simmered in tangy BBQ sauce and diced tomatoes with green chiles, then topped with melted Colby Jack cheese, crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and green onions. Perfect for an easy, hands-off dinner with rich smoky and savory flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Other Ingredients

  • 2 cups BBQ sauce (divided use)
  • 10 ounce can tomatoes with green chiles, drained (like Rotel)
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 4 slices Colby Jack cheese
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 4 green onions, diced

Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken: Pat dry 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  2. Make Seasoning Mix and Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon pepper, and ½ teaspoon salt. Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with this spice mixture.
  3. Brown the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown both sides of the chicken breasts for about 2 minutes each side, just until golden and seared but not cooked through, to develop extra flavor.
  4. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the browned chicken breasts in a 5-6 quart slow cooker in a single layer.
  5. Add BBQ Sauce and Tomatoes: Pour 1 cup of BBQ sauce over the chicken evenly, then add the drained can of tomatoes with green chiles on top.
  6. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender.
  7. Add Toppings: After the chicken is cooked, spoon the remaining 1 cup of BBQ sauce over the chicken breasts. Place a slice of Colby Jack cheese on each breast, then sprinkle crumbled bacon, diced tomato, and sliced green onions over the cheese.
  8. Final Melt: Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes on low to allow the cheese to melt fully and toppings to warm through.
  9. Serve: Serve the Monterey chicken warm with your favorite sides or over rice for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Make sure not to overcook the chicken during browning; it should only be browned for color.
  • You can use your favorite brand of BBQ sauce or adjust the amount based on your taste preference for sauciness.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the microwave or oven.
  • This recipe is adaptable for a paleo or keto diet by using sugar-free BBQ sauce and omitting tomatoes if needed.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 850 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 105 mg

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