Description
A smoky, cheesy delight combining juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar, all smothered in tangy barbecue sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, cookouts, or game-day meals, this dish delivers bold flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (serves 4–6):
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Topping:
6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
Optional Garnish:
Chopped fresh parsley or chives
Extra barbecue sauce for serving
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to a baking dish.
Step 3: Add Bacon, Cheese & BBQ Sauce
Top each chicken piece with chopped bacon. Drizzle with barbecue sauce and sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with parsley or chives. Serve with your favorite sides such as corn on the cob, baked potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Crispy Cheese Tip: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end to get the cheese extra golden and bubbly.
- Make Ahead: Cook chicken and bacon ahead; assemble and bake right before serving.
- Alternative Cheese: Pepper jack or smoked gouda adds a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Chicken
- Method: Baked / Oven
- Cuisine: American / BBQ