Ingredients

1 lb. boneless and skinless chicken breast

1 Tbsp avocado oil

1/2 cup red wine or chicken broth

1 cup tomato puree

1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

Topping ideas:

sliced green onions

diced avocado

cherry tomatoes, chopped

fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, chopped

BBQ spice rub:

1 tbsp smoked paprika

1/8 tsp ground black pepper

1/2 tsp sea salt

1/2 tsp ground coriander seed

1/2 tsp chili powder

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together all BBQ spice rub seasonings until well combined.

Step 2: Place the chicken breasts on a clean board and rub the BBQ spice blend evenly on all sides.

Step 3: Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Add the BBQ-rubbed chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove chicken and set aside on a plate.

Step 5: Pour red wine or chicken broth into the skillet and simmer until reduced, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spatula.

Step 6: Stir in the tomato puree and whisk to combine into a smooth sauce. Reduce heat to low and bring the sauce to a simmer.

Step 7: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the pieces, and sprinkle with shredded Monterey Jack cheese.

Step 8: Continue cooking on low heat until the cheese melts and the sauce is bubbly, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 9: Remove from heat and garnish with your choice of sliced green onions, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs.

Step 10: Serve hot and enjoy your Monterey Chicken Skillet.

Tips & Variations

For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper in the BBQ rub.

Swap Monterey Jack cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.

Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier, more flavorful meat.

Add a splash of cream to the sauce for a richer texture.

Serve with rice, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Monterey Jack with cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even cheddar, depending on your preference. Each will add a slightly different flavor and melt consistency.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Absolutely. This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and check that your tomato puree does not contain any additives with gluten.