Description
Enjoy a delicious Cream Cheese Bacon Stuffed Chicken, featuring juicy chicken breasts filled with a creamy blend of cream cheese, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped (about 8 slices)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the cream cheese filling using a spoon or spatula.
- Secure the opening of each breast with toothpicks.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Remove the toothpicks and slice each chicken breast in half to reveal the filling.
- Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- For added spice, consider incorporating cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the filling.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes