Description
A juicy, savory, and crispy weeknight dinner that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. This easy meal involves stuffing chicken breasts with a creamy cheese mixture, wrapping them in bacon, and baking until golden brown.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8–10 slices thick-cut bacon
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2–3 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Handful of chopped fresh spinach
- Optional: Diced jalapenos for heat
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag and pound to an even ½-inch thickness.
- In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until a thick paste forms.
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally through the side to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture into each pocket and spread evenly.
- Wrap two slices of bacon around each stuffed chicken breast, spiraling and overlapping slightly. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
- Place wrapped chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the bacon is crispy.
- If bacon browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil. If bacon isn’t crispy enough, broil for 1-2 minutes while watching closely.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Pound the chicken to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking. Do not overstuff the chicken to prevent cheese leakage. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven at 350°F.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast wit
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 40
Keywords: keto, low carb, bacon wrapped chicken, stuffed chicken, weeknight dinner, easy recipes, high protein, gluten free