If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s easy to make yet packed with flavor, this Cheesy Bacon-Stuffed Chicken recipe is for you! Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with creamy, melted cheese and crispy bacon, then coated in a crunchy layer for the ultimate comfort food experience. This dish is ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something delicious. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or a mix)
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Coating:
1 cup crushed cornflakes (or breadcrumbs)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
For Binding:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
Preparation Time
Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Chuck Roast: Perfect for dishes that require slow cooking, such as this Rustic Beef Pot Roast with Garden Vegetables.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and slice a pocket into the side of each breast without cutting all the way through.
3. Stuff the Chicken:
Season the inside of each pocket with salt and pepper. Stuff each chicken breast with shredded cheese and crumbled bacon, then press the edges of the chicken together to seal.
4. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, combine the crushed cornflakes (or breadcrumbs), grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Dredge each stuffed chicken breast in flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs. Finally, coat it with the cornflake mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, crispy goodness!
Tips for Success
Secure the Filling: Use toothpicks to hold the chicken closed if you’re worried about the filling leaking out during cooking.
Customize the Cheese: Try using different cheeses like Swiss, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for added flavor.
Crunchy Coating Alternative: For extra crunch, mix crushed Ritz crackers with the cornflakes or breadcrumbs.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 400
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 20g
(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes)
Conclusion
This Cheesy Bacon-Stuffed Chicken recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your dinner routine. With its juicy chicken, gooey cheese filling, and crispy, flavorful coating, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Pair it with a side of vegetables or a salad for a complete meal that’s satisfying and delicious.