The Monterey Chicken Bubble Up Recipe is a fun and delicious one-dish meal that combines tender chicken, zesty toppings, and fluffy biscuit dough. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe takes the classic flavors of Monterey chicken grilled chicken, barbecue sauce, cheese, and veggies and turns them into a bubbling, cheesy casserole that your family will love.
Ingredients for Monterey Chicken Bubble Up Recipe
Gather these ingredients to create a delightful and filling dish:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (like Grands!)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup corn (drained, can be frozen or canned)
- 1 bell pepper (diced, choose your favorite color)
- 1/2 cup red onion (diced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnishing)
How to Make Monterey Chicken Bubble Up Recipe
Follow these simple steps to whip up this mouthwatering casserole.
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures it’s hot enough to cook everything evenly.
- Prepare the Biscuit Dough: Open the can of biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. This helps them mix well with the other ingredients.
- Cook the Vegetables: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bell pepper and red onion. Sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Mix the Chicken and Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, barbecue sauce, corn, sautéed vegetables, and half of the cheese. Stir it all together until everything is well coated.
- Combine Biscuit Dough: Gently fold the biscuit pieces into the chicken mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want the biscuit dough to stay somewhat chunky.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the casserole. This will create a lovely cheesy crust.
- Bake it Up: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. If you like, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for flavor and color. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Monterey Chicken Bubble Up Recipe
- Use Leftover Chicken: This is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand.
- Experiment with BBQ Sauce: Different barbecue sauces can change the flavor profile. Try a sweet, smoky, or spicy sauce based on your taste.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to use any vegetables you love. Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach can all work beautifully.
How to Serve Monterey Chicken Bubble Up
Serving this delightful dish is easy! Pair it with a fresh side salad for a complete meal. You can also offer options like:
- Extra BBQ sauce: For those who love more tangy flavor.
- Sour cream: A dollop adds creaminess.
- Avocado slices: Fresh slices provide a nice texture contrast.
Storage Tips for Monterey Chicken Bubble Up
If you happen to have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Variations of Monterey Chicken Bubble Up
This recipe is quite versatile! Here are some fun variations you can try:
- Buffalo Chicken Bubble Up: Swap out the BBQ sauce for buffalo sauce and add some crumbled blue cheese for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like black beans, mushrooms, or even some cooked quinoa for a filling meal.
- Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom: Enhance with sautéed spinach and mushrooms for an additional boost of flavor and nutrients.
Can You Freeze Monterey Chicken Bubble Up?
Absolutely! You can freeze this casserole before baking or after. Just ensure it’s in a well-sealed container. When you are ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen, adding some extra time to cook through.
Nutritional Benefits of Monterey Chicken Bubble Up
This Monterey Chicken Bubble Up Recipe has its share of nutritional benefits, especially when using lean chicken and fresh vegetables. Here are a few noteworthy points:
- Protein-Rich: Chicken provides a healthy dose of protein critical for muscle repair and growth.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Bell peppers and onions add essential vitamins like A and C, which are great for your overall health.
- Comfort Food with Balance: While this dish is indulgent, it can be made healthier with whole grain biscuits and added vegetables.
The Monterey Chicken Bubble Up Recipe is a winner for any meal, throwing together creamy, cheesy goodness and savory chicken in one bubbly dish. It’s a fantastic way to satisfy cravings while bringing everyone at the table together. Enjoy this recipe with your loved ones, and watch them go back for seconds—it’s that good!