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Bacon-Wrapped Cheesy Chicken: simple crispy dinner
Bacon-wrapped cheesy chicken: simple, flavorful, and oven-finished with crispy bacon.
Why this recipe works
This recipe yields a savory, protein-forward dish: chicken breasts wrapped in bacon with melted cheddar. It’s suited for busy weeknights, family dinners, or weekend gatherings where you want a simple, crowd-pleasing main course.
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Key takeaways
Crispy bacon from searing then oven-finish.
Melty cheddar adds easy flavor.
Rest before slicing to keep juices in.
Recipe guide
This recipe yields a savory, protein-forward dish: chicken breasts wrapped in bacon with melted cheddar. It’s suited for busy weeknights, family dinners, or weekend gatherings where you want a simple, crowd-pleasing main course.
Crispy bacon, melty cheese, hands-off oven finish.
- Crispy bacon from searing then oven-finish.
- Melty cheddar adds easy flavor.
- Rest before slicing to keep juices in.
Prep and wrap
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper. Optional: cut pockets for cheddar, or place cheese on top. Brush with olive oil. Wrap each breast with 4 bacon slices, overlapping and tucking ends under.
Sear the wraps
Sear wrapped chicken in a hot ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, 2–3 minutes per side until bacon starts to brown. This locks in flavor and begins crisping the bacon.
Bake and rest
Finish in the oven 18–25 minutes, until internal temp hits 165°F (74°C). If bacon isn’t crisp, broil 1–2 minutes watching closely. Rest 5 minutes before slicing.
Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 oz cheddar cheese, sliced or shredded
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Cut a pocket into each chicken breast if desired and stuff with cheddar, or simply place cheese on top of each breast.
- Brush chicken lightly with olive oil.
- Wrap each chicken breast tightly with 4 bacon slices, overlapping slightly and tucking ends underneath.
- Heat an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat and sear wrapped chicken 2-3 minutes per side until bacon begins to brown.
- Transfer skillet to oven and bake 18-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- If bacon isn't crisp, broil 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Let chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
FAQs
Can I customize the cheese or add fillings?
Yes, you can use green onions or chives for extra flavor, but keep portions small so bacon remains the star.
What’s the safe internal temperature?
Ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to be safe. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
What if I don’t want to broil?
If you skip broiling, bake longer at 400°F until fully cooked; don’t compromise the bacon’s crispness.