If you’re craving the flavors of Chili’s Monterey Chicken but can’t find it on the menu anymore, this Air Fryer Monterey Chicken recipe is for you! This copycat version is loaded with juicy chicken breast, tangy BBQ sauce, melted Colby Jack cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh toppings like diced tomatoes and green onions. Best of all, you can make this restaurant-style dish in under 15 minutes using your air fryer!
What Is Monterey Chicken?
Monterey Chicken is a beloved dish that features chicken breasts topped with BBQ sauce, melted cheese, bacon, tomatoes, and green onions. Originally popularized by Chili’s, it’s no longer available there. But don’t worry—this easy homemade version delivers the same flavors at a fraction of the cost.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, but chicken thighs can also be used.
- Brine: A simple mix of kosher salt and warm water keeps your chicken juicy during air frying.
- BBQ Dry Rub: Use your favorite store-bought BBQ rub or try our homemade dry rub recipe.
- BBQ Sauce: Go with your favorite brand, or make it extra special with homemade bourbon BBQ sauce.
- Cheese: Shredded Colby Jack cheese is the classic choice, but feel free to use Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses.
- Bacon: Make sure it’s pre-cooked and crumbled. We recommend cooking it in the air fryer for extra crispiness!
- Diced Tomatoes & Green Onions: These fresh toppings complete the dish, adding vibrant color and flavor.
How to Make Monterey Chicken in the Air Fryer
- Brine the Chicken: Combine kosher salt and warm water to create a simple brine. Soak the chicken in this for an hour, then pat dry. While this step can be skipped, it ensures juicy, flavorful chicken.
- Season: Liberally rub the chicken with BBQ dry rub. Spritz your air fryer basket with oil, and lay the chicken in a single layer.
- Air Fry: Cook at 380°F for 7 minutes. Flip the chicken, coat both sides with BBQ sauce, and air fry for another 3-4 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Add Toppings: Turn off the air fryer and sprinkle the chicken with shredded cheese. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes to melt. Finish with crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, and green onions.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Monterey Chicken
- Skip the brine if you’re short on time, but it does help keep the chicken tender.
- Any BBQ sauce or rub works! Experiment with different flavors to keep it interesting.
- Let the residual heat melt the cheese instead of turning the air fryer back on.
Serving Suggestions
This air fryer chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. You can serve it with air fryer onion rings, cheesy Hasselback potatoes, or even garlic mashed potatoes. If you’re sticking with air fryer recipes, consider pairing it with air fryer frozen french fries or Cajun fried corn for a complete meal.
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer, oven, or microwave. If freezing, store in an airtight container for up to three months. It’s best to freeze without cheese and toppings, adding those fresh after reheating.
With this easy air fryer Monterey chicken recipe, you’ll have a quick, restaurant-quality meal right at home! The BBQ sauce, cheese, and bacon make every bite a flavor-packed delight, while the air fryer keeps everything simple and fast.
