Introduction
This rich and comforting baked chicken dish combines juicy chicken breasts stuffed with cheese, wrapped in smoky bacon, and baked in a savory sauce until bubbly and golden. It is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or when you want an impressive yet easy oven meal.
Ingredients (in order)
4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts 8 slices beef or turkey bacon 1½ cups shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese ½ cup cheddar cheese 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon paprika Salt and black pepper to taste 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 cup beef or chicken broth ½ cup barbecue sauce or thick tomato sauce 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
Preparation Method
Preheat the oven to 190°C 375°F Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil Slice each chicken breast lengthwise to create a pocket without cutting all the way through Season the inside and outside of the chicken with salt pepper garlic powder onion powder and paprika Stuff each chicken breast evenly with mozzarella and cheddar cheese Wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly with two slices of bacon and place seam-side down in the baking dish
Sauce Preparation
In a bowl mix broth barbecue or tomato sauce Worcestershire sauce and dried parsley Pour the sauce evenly around and lightly over the chicken without washing off the seasoning
Cooking Instructions
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes Remove foil and continue baking for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked the bacon is browned and the cheese is melted and bubbling If you want extra color place under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes watching carefully
Serving Suggestions
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving Spoon the sauce over the chicken Serve with mashed potatoes rice roasted vegetables or a fresh salad
Tips for Best Results
Use thick chicken breasts for better stuffing Secure bacon with toothpicks if needed Add mushrooms or onions to the sauce for more flavor For extra creaminess add ¼ cup cream to the sauce
Conclusion
This cheesy bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken bake is hearty flavorful and always a crowd-pleaser with its gooey center smoky outside and rich sauce all baked perfectly in order