Introduction
This delicious chicken dish topped with fresh guacamole offers a delightful combination of flavors that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for a family dinner or casual entertaining, this recipe showcases the richness of Monterey Jack cheese paired with the creamy goodness of homemade guacamole. Follow the steps below to create a meal that is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For the Guacamole:
– 2 medium avocados
– 1 small tomato, diced
– 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20-25 minutes
Total Time
35-40 minutes
Yield
4 servings
Complete this dish by gathering your ingredients and following the outlined directions to achieve a flavorful experience that balances the zest of guacamole with the comforting taste of cheesy chicken. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– If the chicken breasts are thick, slice them horizontally to create thinner pieces.
– Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish.
– Sprinkle cumin, garlic powder, and salt evenly over both sides of the chicken.
– Top each chicken breast with shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
Bake the Chicken:
– Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Prepare the Guacamole:
– While the chicken is baking, cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a medium bowl.
– Mash the avocados to your desired consistency.
– Add diced tomato, chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
– Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
Assemble the Dish:
– Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven.
– Top each chicken breast with a generous scoop of guacamole.
– Serve immediately.
Notes
Chicken Preparation:
– For even cooking, ensure chicken breasts are similar in thickness.
Guacamole Tips:
– For best flavor, make the guacamole just before serving to prevent browning.
Serving Suggestions:
– This dish pairs well with tortilla chips or a fresh salad.
Storage:
– Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Chicken
Slicing the chicken breasts horizontally can help them cook more evenly and quickly. Seasoning with cumin, garlic powder, and salt enhances the flavor profile, while topping with Monterey Jack cheese adds richness and creaminess to the dish.
Baking the Chicken
Baking the chicken at 400°F (200°C) ensures that it cooks through quickly, while also allowing the cheese to melt and form a bubbly crust. Keep an eye on the chicken to prevent overcooking.
Preparing the Guacamole
Choosing ripe avocados is key for a creamy texture. Mashing them to your desired consistency allows for either a smooth or chunky guacamole. Mixing in fresh ingredients like tomato, red onion, and cilantro elevates the flavor, while lime juice adds brightness.
Assembling the Dish
Topping the baked chicken with guacamole just before serving not only looks appealing but also adds a fresh contrast to the warm, cheesy chicken. Serve the dish immediately for the best taste experience.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I substitute for Monterey Jack cheese?
You can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with other cheeses such as Cheddar, Pepper Jack, or Colby cheese.
How do I store leftover guacamole?
To store leftover guacamole, transfer it to an airtight container and cover it with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to minimize oxidation. It should last in the fridge for 1-2 days.
Can I make the guacamole ahead of time?
While it’s best to make guacamole fresh, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just remember to store it properly to prevent browning.
What dishes pair well with this chicken and guacamole?
This chicken and guacamole dish pairs well with rice, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This Chicken with Guacamole dish delivers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. The tender, flavorful chicken topped with creamy guacamole creates a satisfying experience for the palate. Enjoy the balance of spices and freshness, and consider customizing the dish to suit your personal taste preferences.
Grilled Chicken Tacos
Transform the chicken into a delicious filling for tacos by using soft tortillas, adding shredded lettuce, and incorporating additional toppings like salsa and sour cream.
Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
Use the seasoned chicken and Monterey Jack cheese in quesadillas. Grill them on a skillet until golden brown, and serve with guacamole and salsa on the side.
Chicken Salad Wraps
Shred the baked chicken and mix it with guacamole for a tasty and creamy chicken salad. Serve it wrapped in lettuce leaves or in whole-grain tortillas for a lighter option.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Combine diced chicken and guacamole with cooked rice and beans, then stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers. Bake until the peppers are tender for a hearty dish.
Chicken Nachos
Layer tortilla chips with the baked chicken, melted Monterey Jack cheese, and spoonfuls of guacamole on top. Broil until crispy for a fun and shareable appetizer.
