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Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

This Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken recipe combines smoky BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and melted sharp cheddar cheese for a bold and satisfying meal. Perfect for grilling or stovetop cooking, it offers easy prep, hearty flavors, and versatile options that make it ideal for family dinners or backyard parties.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite smoky variety)
  • 8 bacon strips, cooked crispy
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to build a flavorful foundation.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Sear the chicken breasts until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side. This locks in juices and creates a delicious crust.
  3. Add BBQ Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and brush a generous layer of BBQ sauce over each piece of chicken. Let it cook for 2 minutes to set the sauce slightly.
  4. Top with Bacon and Cheese: Place crispy bacon strips on top of each chicken breast, then add a thick layer of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid to allow the cheese to melt perfectly.
  5. Finish Cooking: Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked without drying it out.
  • Cook bacon separately for crispier texture before adding to the chicken.
  • Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain juices and guarantee tender bites.
  • Choose a quality, smoky BBQ sauce for best flavor.
  • Cover the pan when melting cheese to ensure even melting without burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken, bacon cheddar chicken, cowboy chicken, grilled chicken, gluten free chicken, BBQ recipe, cheesy chicken, bacon recipe