Baked Chicken Breast with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe

by

Ingredients

To make this dish, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor:

  • Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and preferably of equal size for even cooking.
  • Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best for a hearty texture.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is ideal for that tangy, rich flavor.
  • Seasonings: Garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to add depth to the chicken.
  • Olive Oil: Helps keep the chicken juicy and adds a touch of richness.
  • Fresh Herbs (optional): Chopped parsley or chives for garnish.

Feel free to tweak the ingredients based on your preferences. For example, swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or add a sprinkle of red chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Baked Chicken

Prepare the Chicken Breasts

The first step is prepping your chicken to ensure it cooks evenly and absorbs maximum flavor.

  1. Pound the Chicken: Place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound it to an even thickness. This step helps the chicken cook uniformly.
  2. Season Generously: Mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub this seasoning blend all over the chicken breasts.
  3. Add Olive Oil: Drizzle a small amount of olive oil on the chicken to lock in moisture.

This may contain: two pieces of meat in a white casserole dish with a spoon sticking out of it

Pre-Cook the Bacon

Why pre-cook the bacon? It ensures the bacon turns crispy in the oven without overcooking the chicken.

  1. Cook the Bacon Partially: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until it’s just starting to crisp. Avoid fully cooking it at this stage.
  2. Drain and Cool: Place the bacon on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.

Assemble the Dish

Here’s where the magic starts to happen!

  1. Layer the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish greased with a little olive oil.
  2. Add the Bacon: Lay the partially cooked bacon strips across the chicken, covering each breast.
  3. Top with Cheddar: Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the bacon.

Bake to Perfection

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat fully.
  2. Bake the Chicken: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  3. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy yet indulgent recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Baked chicken breast with bacon and cheddar is the kind of dish that brings people together, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual weekend gathering. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and melty cheddar is comfort food at its finest.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds—and your dinner guests—will thank you!

Related Posts:

Leave a Comment