Bacon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Stuffed chicken breasts are one of those recipes that feel fancy but are incredibly easy to make. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese is pure comfort food at its finest. Bacon and cream cheese stuffed chicken breasts are perfect for a weeknight meal, yet impressive enough to serve guests at a dinner party. The creamy filling inside contrasts beautifully with the crispy bacon, creating a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

What Are Bacon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts?

Bacon and cream cheese stuffed chicken breasts are chicken breasts that have been butterflied and filled with a mixture of cream cheese, bacon, and seasonings. The chicken is then baked or pan-fried until golden and crispy, with the filling melting into a rich, savory center. This recipe is perfect for those who love rich, indulgent flavors combined with the juicy tenderness of chicken.

How to Prepare the Chicken Breasts

To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, you’ll want to butterfly each chicken breast by slicing them horizontally without cutting all the way through. Once butterflied, place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a meat mallet until they are about 1/2 inch thick. This will help the chicken cook evenly and makes it easier to roll around the filling.

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for a simple yet flavorful base.

Making the Bacon and Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium-sized bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, crumbled bacon, shredded mozzarella, and parsley until fully combined. The cream cheese gives the filling a rich, creamy texture, while the bacon adds a salty, crispy bite.

For added flavor, you can stir in some spinach, chopped jalapeños, or sun-dried tomatoes. If you prefer a smokier taste, sprinkle in a little smoked paprika.

Assembling the Chicken Breasts

Lay the butterflied chicken breasts flat and spoon a generous amount of the bacon and cream cheese filling onto one side. Fold the other side over the filling and secure the edges with toothpicks. Be careful not to overstuff the chicken, as this can cause the filling to spill out during cooking.

Baking vs. Pan-Frying: Which is Best?

Both methods work well for cooking stuffed chicken breasts, but each offers a slightly different result.

• Baking: Baking the chicken breasts in the oven allows for even cooking throughout. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Pan-Frying: Pan-frying gives the chicken a nice, crispy exterior. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, then transfer to a baking dish and finish in the oven at 375°F for another 10-15 minutes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking the Chicken

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Butterfly and pound the chicken breasts.
3. Prepare the cream cheese and bacon filling.
4. Stuff and secure the chicken with toothpicks.
5. Cook using your preferred method (bake or pan-fry).
6. Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before serving.

Finishing Touches

For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle the chicken with a light sauce. A garlic butter sauce or a balsamic glaze pairs beautifully with the richness of the filling. You can also garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added flair.

Serving Suggestions

Bacon and cream cheese stuffed chicken breasts are quite rich, so pairing them with lighter sides is ideal. A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli complements the dish without overwhelming the palate. Mashed cauliflower or garlic butter asparagus are also great low-carb options.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Chicken Breasts

1. Don’t Overstuff – Too much filling can cause the chicken to burst open while cooking.
2. Use Toothpicks – Securing the chicken with toothpicks helps keep the filling intact and ensures even cooking.
3. Rest the Chicken – Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Variations of the Recipe

If you want to mix things up, try adding different ingredients to the filling. You can substitute cheddar cheese for mozzarella, add sautéed mushrooms, or mix in spinach for a healthier option. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.

Health Benefits of Chicken

Chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, making them a healthy choice for dinner. While the bacon and cream cheese add some richness, the overall dish is still a good balance of protein and fat. By choosing quality ingredients and pairing the dish with light, nutritious sides, you can enjoy this indulgent meal while staying within your dietary goals.

Making It Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly

This recipe is naturally low in carbs and fits well into a keto or low-carb diet. To keep it keto-friendly, pair the chicken with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice, sautéed spinach, or zucchini noodles. The combination of fat from the bacon and cream cheese with the protein from the chicken makes this dish perfect for those following a keto lifestyle.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through. You can also freeze the stuffed chicken breasts for up to 2 months—just thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

Bacon and cream cheese stuffed chicken breasts are a delightful dish that combines rich, savory flavors with the satisfying texture of perfectly cooked chicken. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. The creamy filling and crispy bacon create a mouthwatering experience that’s both comforting and elegant.

The flexibility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your taste, adding ingredients like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the flavor. By following the simple steps and tips provided, you’ll achieve a perfectly cooked, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare the chicken breasts ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a day in advance. Assemble and secure the chicken breasts, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking for even results.
2. Can I use turkey bacon for a healthier option?
   Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative to traditional bacon and will still add a delicious flavor to the dish. Keep in mind that turkey bacon is usually leaner, so it may not provide as much fat or crispiness as pork bacon.
3. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
   Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that it’s cooked through and safe to eat without being dry.
4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, be sure to check any pre-packaged ingredients like seasonings or bacon to ensure they are gluten-free. You can also use gluten-free toothpicks if you prefer.
5. What’s the best way to keep the chicken from drying out?
   To keep the chicken moist, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature and let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken tender.
   Yield: 4

   Bacon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

   

   Print

   Stuffed chicken breasts are one of those recipes that feel fancy but are incredibly easy to make. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese is pure comfort food at its finest. Bacon and cream cheese stuffed chicken breasts are perfect for a weeknight meal, yet impressive enough to serve guests at a dinner party. The creamy filling inside contrasts beautifully with the crispy bacon, creating a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

   Prep Time 15 minutes

   Cook Time 30 minutes

   Ingredients

   • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
   • 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
   • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
   • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
   • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
   • 2 green onions, chopped
   • 1 tsp garlic powder
   • 1 tsp smoked paprika
   • 1/2 tsp black pepper
   • 1/2 tsp salt
   • 2 tbsp olive oil

   Instructions

   1. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
   2. Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled bacon, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well mixed and set aside.
   3. Prepare the chicken breasts: Using a sharp knife, cut a deep pocket into each chicken breast without cutting all the way through. Be careful to leave the sides intact so the filling doesn’t spill out.
   4. Stuff the chicken: Spoon the cream cheese and bacon mixture evenly into each chicken breast pocket, using toothpicks to secure the edges if needed.
   5. Season the chicken: Rub the outside of the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
   6. Bake the chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
   7. Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

   Notes

   Cheese options: Feel free to substitute other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor.

   Bacon tip: Pre-cook the bacon until it’s crispy to add more texture to the filling.

   Make ahead: You can prepare and stuff the chicken breasts ahead of time, then refrigerate them until ready to bake.