Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

Why Make This Recipe

Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines the smoky flavor of bacon, the richness of cheddar cheese, and the sweetness of barbecue sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a tasty weekend feast. This dish is easy to make and will impress your guests with its bold flavors. Plus, who can resist crispy bacon on chicken?

How to Make Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 slices bacon
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until it becomes crispy, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess grease.
4. Once the bacon has cooled, crumble it into small pieces and set it aside.
5. Rub both sides of each chicken breast with olive oil.
6. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.
7. Place a large oven-safe skillet on medium-high heat and heat until hot.
8. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust.
9. While the chicken is cooking, chop the green onions and prepare the barbecue sauce.
10. Once the chicken is seared, reduce the heat to medium and pour the barbecue sauce evenly over the chicken breasts.
11. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the barbecue sauce-covered chicken breasts.
12. Crumble the cooked bacon over the cheese.
13. Transfer the skillet with the chicken to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
14. Once the chicken is done, remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the chopped green onions on top.
15. If desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the chicken for a bit of extra heat.
16. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

Serve the Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken hot from the oven. This dish pairs well with a side of mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.

How to Store Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

To store leftover Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken, allow it to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Tips to Make Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

• Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get a good sear.
• Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• For added flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite barbecue sauce for a few hours before cooking.

Variation

You can customize this dish by adding other toppings, such as jalapeños for heat, or even switching to different types of cheese like pepper jack or mozzarella. Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. What can I serve with this dish?
This chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, fries, or a fresh salad. Feel free to add your favorite sides!

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!

Print