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Cheesy Million Dollar Baked Chicken Breast with Cream Cheese & Bacon!

Cheesy Million Dollar Baked Chicken Breast with Cream Cheese & Bacon!
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Cheesy Million Dollar Baked Chicken Breast with Cream Cheese & Bacon is a rich and creamy baked chicken dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious cream cheese and bacon filling, topped with melted cheddar cheese. This indulgent and flavorful recipe is quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. The smoky bacon, warm spices, and creamy cheese create a comforting yet protein-packed meal that is customizable to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasonings

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Cream Cheese Filling

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 4 strips bacon, cooked and chopped

Garnish (Optional)

  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about ¾ inch for consistent cooking. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon strips until crispy but not burnt. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cooled, chop into small pieces.
  3. Mix the Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with half of the shredded cheddar cheese and the chopped bacon. Mix well until smooth and evenly integrated.
  4. Stuff or Top the Chicken: For a stuffed version, create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the center without cutting all the way through, then stuff the cream cheese mixture inside. Alternatively, spread the filling evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Place the prepared chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving to add color and freshness.

Notes

  • Ensure chicken breasts are an even thickness for tender and uniform cooking.
  • Use room temperature softened cream cheese for easier mixing and spreading.
  • Do not overbake the chicken to prevent dryness; juicy texture is essential.
  • Opt for thick-cut bacon for better texture and richer flavor.
  • Allow the chicken to rest after baking to redistribute juices and maintain moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked chicken breast, cheesy baked chicken, cream cheese chicken, bacon chicken, easy chicken dinner, creamy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/cheesy-million-dollar-baked-chicken-breast-with-cream-cheese-bacon/