Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken
A hearty dish featuring smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and gooey cheddar cheese over tender chicken breasts, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Protein
- 4 pieces chicken breasts Trim excess fat and flatten if necessary. Alternative: turkey breasts or thighs.
Liquids/Dairy
- 1 cup BBQ sauce Use your favorite brand or homemade.
Aromatic & Vegetables
- 6 slices bacon Cook until crispy and chop. Alternative: turkey bacon.
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Use pre-shredded or shred your own for better melting. Alternatives: mozzarella or pepper jack.
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt For seasoning chicken.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper For seasoning chicken.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For searing chicken.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Cooking
- In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Once chicken is browned, sprinkle chopped bacon over it.
- Pour BBQ sauce evenly on top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the entire dish.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let it sit for a few minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for a few hours prior to cooking. Customize with jalapeños or bell peppers. Serve with sides for a complete meal.