Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Picture succulent chicken breasts smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce, topped with crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese. When I first made this dish, the aroma that filled my kitchen was enough to make everyone gather around the table in anticipation. It’s the kind of recipe that amplifies the joys of weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even those impromptu celebrations. The best part? It’s easy to whip up and could easily become a family favorite!

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why should this dish find a permanent place on your meal rotation? Not only does it come together quickly, but it also packs a punch in flavor. Whether you’re juggling a busy week or planning a weekend feast, Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken is the perfect option. The melding of smoky bacon, rich cheddar, and zesty BBQ sauce transforms the simple chicken breast into a flavorful masterpiece.

"Made this for a quick weeknight dinner. My kids couldn’t get enough! It was a hit with the whole family!" – Satisfied Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Getting started with this recipe is a breeze. You’ll begin by prepping your ingredients, followed by searing the chicken to perfection, and finally finishing it in the oven. The entire process takes less than 30 minutes, making it not just simple, but also incredibly satisfying.

What You’ll Need

• 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)

Feel free to substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or even a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for a healthier spin!

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, crispy-cook the bacon for about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.
3. Crumble the cooled bacon and set aside.
4. Coat each chicken breast with olive oil and season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. In a hot, oven-safe skillet, sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until both sides are golden-brown.
6. Pour the barbecue sauce over the chicken, topping with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is bubbly.
8. Once done, sprinkle with chopped green onions and optional red pepper flakes before allowing to rest for a few minutes.

Best Way to Serve

Serve your Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken with a side of creamy coleslaw or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider pairing it with some cornbread or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors.

Storage Tips

To keep your delicious chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness, or use the microwave for quicker heating. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing the chicken (up to 3 months) and then thoroughly reheating it once you’re ready to enjoy again.

Pro Chef Tips

• Searing is key! It locks in moisture and flavor, making your chicken breast juicy.
• Make sure to not overcrowd the skillet while searing, as this can prevent browning.
• Consider adding slices of jalapeño for an extra kick or swapping out cheddar for pepper jack cheese.

Different Ways to Make It

Feeling creative? Try adding different toppings like sautéed mushrooms or using different barbecue sauces for varying flavors. You can also mix in some jalapeños for a nice spicy touch! Alternatively, try this recipe with fish or pork chops for a new twist.

Helpful FAQs

What is the prep time for Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken?

The prep time for this dish is about 10 minutes, and the cooking time is around 15-20 minutes, so you can have dinner on the table in just 30 minutes!

Can I make it healthier?

Absolutely! You can opt for skinless, boneless chicken thighs or turkey bacon for a lower-fat version. You can also use light cheese to cut down on calories.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the chicken breast.

Transform your dinner routine with this Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken recipe—it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table! Enjoy!

Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

Succulent chicken breasts smothered in tangy BBQ sauce, topped with crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese, this dish brings joy to any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, crispy-cook the bacon for about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.
3. Crumble the cooled bacon and set aside.
4. Coat each chicken breast with olive oil and season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. In a hot, oven-safe skillet, sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until both sides are golden-brown.
6. Pour the barbecue sauce over the chicken, topping with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is bubbly.
8. Once done, sprinkle with chopped green onions and optional red pepper flakes before allowing to rest for a few minutes.

Notes

Serve with creamy coleslaw or roasted vegetables. For longer storage, keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: chicken, BBQ, bacon, cheddar, quick dinner