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Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines smoky BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and melted sharp cheddar over tender chicken breasts. Perfect for backyard gatherings or weeknight dinners, this recipe is easy to prepare, family-friendly, and versatile enough to suit different tastes and variations.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (smoky or sweet, your choice)
  • 8 strips crispy bacon
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a flavorful base before cooking.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and nearly cooked through.
  3. Add BBQ Sauce and Bacon: Remove the skillet from heat briefly. Spread a generous layer of BBQ sauce over each chicken breast, then top each with crispy bacon strips.
  4. Melt the Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the bacon-topped chicken breasts. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 7 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful meal.

Notes

  • Quality ingredients matter: Use fresh chicken and high-quality BBQ sauce for the best taste.
  • Don’t overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F, keeping it juicy and tender.
  • Crispy bacon tip: Cook bacon separately until crisp before adding to the chicken for perfect texture.
  • Use shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese melts more evenly than sliced.
  • Let chicken rest: Allow resting time after baking to keep the meat juicy instead of drying out.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken, bacon chicken, cheddar chicken, smoky BBQ, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, backyard BBQ, gluten free