Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

Bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts are a fantastic way to elevate a simple chicken dish. The crispy bacon encases the chicken, adding a delightful crunch, while the stuffing can be tailored to your tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you want a rich and creamy stuffing or a light, vegetable-packed filling, the possibilities are endless. The bacon not only provides a delicious flavor but also helps to keep the chicken moist while baking, ensuring a juicy and tender result.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts, from choosing the best ingredients to cooking and serving. We’ll also provide suggestions for variations to customize the dish to suit your personal taste. So, let’s get started and dive into this flavorful recipe!

Step 1: Trim the Chicken Breasts

• Start by trimming any excess fat or skin from the chicken breasts. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove the skin or any uneven areas of the breast. It’s best to leave the chicken in one whole piece, rather than cutting it into separate pieces.

Step 2: Butterfly the Chicken

• Butterfly the chicken breasts to create a pocket for the stuffing. Place the chicken breast on a cutting board and hold it flat. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally into the thickest part of the chicken, making sure not to cut all the way through. You want to create a flap that can open up, creating enough room for the stuffing.
• If the chicken is particularly thick, you may want to use a meat mallet to gently pound it down to an even thickness for easier cooking.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

• Season the inside and outside of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. If you want to add more flavor, you can include a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder.

Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing

• While you can use store-bought stuffing or skip it altogether, homemade stuffing enhances the overall flavor. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well-combined.

The Best Stuffing Recipes for Chicken Breasts

Now that your chicken is ready, it’s time to prepare the stuffing. The stuffing for bacon-wrapped chicken can range from simple cheese mixtures to more complex vegetable or meat-based fillings. Below are a few different stuffing ideas to try:

Classic Cream Cheese and Cheddar Stuffing:

• Ingredients: Cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper.
• Instructions: Mix the cream cheese with shredded cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple stuffing creates a rich, creamy filling.

Spinach and Artichoke Stuffing:

• Ingredients: Cream cheese, spinach (cooked and drained), artichoke hearts (chopped), garlic, Parmesan cheese.
• Instructions: Combine cooked spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. This stuffing brings a fresh flavor to the chicken with the earthy taste of spinach and artichokes.

Bacon and Jalapeño Stuffing:

• Ingredients: Cream cheese, cooked bacon (crumbled), jalapeños (sliced or diced), shredded cheddar cheese.
• Instructions: Mix cream cheese with crumbled bacon, jalapeños, and shredded cheddar cheese. This stuffing provides a smoky, spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the savory bacon wrap.

Mushroom and Garlic Stuffing:

• Ingredients: Mushrooms (sautéed), cream cheese, garlic powder, parsley, Parmesan cheese.
• Instructions: Sauté mushrooms in olive oil until soft, then combine with cream cheese, garlic powder, parsley, and Parmesan. This stuffing adds an earthy, umami flavor to the chicken.

Wrapping the Chicken with Bacon

The bacon wrapping is an essential step that ensures both flavor and moisture retention in the chicken. Here’s how to wrap your stuffed chicken breasts in bacon:

Step 1: Lay Out the Bacon

• Lay the bacon strips on a sheet of parchment paper, slightly overlapping, so they form a bacon mat large enough to wrap the chicken breasts. You’ll need about three strips of bacon per chicken breast, but it depends on the size of the breasts and the bacon.

Step 2: Stuff the Chicken

• Place the prepared stuffing inside the pocket of the butterflied chicken breast. Be generous, but don’t overstuff, as the filling may spill out during cooking.

Step 3: Wrap the Chicken in Bacon

• Carefully lift the chicken breast and place it on top of the bacon. Fold the bacon strips over the chicken breast, ensuring it’s well-wrapped and that the stuffing is fully enclosed. If necessary, secure the bacon using toothpicks at the ends of the chicken to keep everything in place.

Step 4: Optional – Secure with Toothpicks

• If you’re worried about the bacon unwrapping during cooking, you can use toothpicks to secure the bacon in place. Be sure to remove these toothpicks before serving.

Cooking Methods for Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breasts

There are multiple ways to cook bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts, depending on your preferences and available equipment. We will discuss three main cooking methods: baking, searing and baking, and grilling.

Baking Method:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the wrapped chicken breasts in a baking dish, ensuring they’re spaced out for even cooking.
• Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the bacon is crispy.

Searing and Baking Method:

• Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
• Sear the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each side until the bacon is slightly crispy.
• Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Grilling Method:

• Preheat the grill to medium heat.
• Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6–8 minutes per side, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature.

How to Know When the Chicken is Done

To ensure your bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts are fully cooked and safe to eat, you’ll need to check the internal temperature. The recommended safe cooking temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. Once the chicken reaches this temperature, it’s ready to be removed from the oven or grill.

Serving Suggestions

Bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts can be served with a variety of side dishes, depending on the occasion. Some excellent choices include:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or zucchini make excellent sides.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting addition to the dish.
• Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf can complement the richness of the chicken.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette adds a fresh contrast to the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is always a hit.

Possible Variations on Stuffing

While the basic stuffing is delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize it. Consider adding the following:

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as gouda, blue cheese, or mozzarella.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate sautéed onions, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra texture and flavor.
• Meat Variations: Add sausage, prosciutto, or even shredded rotisserie chicken to the stuffing for an added twist.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breasts

• Don’t overstuff the chicken: Stuffing should be generous, but you don’t want it to spill out during cooking.
• Use thick-cut bacon: This bacon will provide the best texture and flavor while cooking, ensuring it crisps up properly.
• Make sure the chicken is evenly flattened: For consistent cooking, ensure the chicken is as even as possible before wrapping it.
• Let the chicken rest: After removing it from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

How to Reheat and Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, you can store your bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but this may make the bacon less crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe? A: Yes, you can, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken breasts take longer to cook, so make sure they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I freeze bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts? A: Yes! You can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before cooking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then follow the cooking instructions.

Additional Cooking Methods: Air Fryer and Instant Pot

In addition to the traditional oven, skillet, and grill methods, there are two other popular modern kitchen gadgets that can be used to cook bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts: the air fryer and the Instant Pot. These cooking methods offer some unique benefits, such as faster cooking times and different textures, and they can be great alternatives depending on your preferences.

Air Fryer Method:

An air fryer provides a crispy texture similar to deep frying but with far less oil, which makes it an excellent choice for cooking bacon-wrapped chicken breasts.

Steps for Cooking in an Air Fryer:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overlapping, so they cook evenly.
3. Cook for 18–20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through to ensure the bacon crisps up evenly on all sides.
4. Check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) before being removed.
5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

The air fryer method can be faster and give you a crispier bacon texture without having to turn on your oven.

Instant Pot Method:

While an Instant Pot isn’t typically used for crisping bacon, it is a great option if you want to speed up cooking and still get juicy, tender chicken with a crispy bacon exterior.

Steps for Cooking in an Instant Pot:

1. Sear the Bacon-Wrapped Chicken: Start by using the “Sauté” function on your Instant Pot to brown the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until the bacon is slightly crispy.
2. Pressure Cook: Add 1/4 cup of chicken broth to the Instant Pot, then close the lid and seal the valve. Set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 8-10 minutes.
3. Release Pressure: After the cooking time is complete, use the quick release method to let out the steam. Check that the chicken’s internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
4. Crisp the Bacon: If you’d like to crisp up the bacon further, place the chicken under the broiler in your oven for 2-3 minutes or use the air fryer function if your Instant Pot model has it.

Pairing Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Drinks

When serving a dish like bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts, you might want to pair it with a complementary beverage. Here are some drink pairings that work beautifully with this rich and savory dish:

Wine Pairings:

1. Red Wine: A medium-bodied red wine such as a Merlot, Pinot Noir, or Zinfandel complements the rich flavors of bacon and the creamy stuffing. These wines offer enough structure to balance the richness of the chicken and bacon.
2. White Wine: If you prefer white wine, try a Chardonnay with a good amount of oak or a Viognier. These wines are full-bodied and have a buttery texture that pairs well with the creaminess of the stuffing.
3. Rosé Wine: A dry rosé also works well, especially if you’ve included herbs or vegetables in the stuffing. The bright acidity of a rosé contrasts nicely with the fat content in the bacon.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings:

1. Iced Tea: A refreshing iced tea with a hint of lemon or mint can balance the richness of the bacon-wrapped chicken.
2. Lemonade: The bright citrus notes of a homemade lemonade help cut through the richness of the chicken and bacon.
3. Sparkling Water: A crisp sparkling water is a light, refreshing alternative that doesn’t overpower the dish and provides a clean finish.

The Healthier Side of Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Although bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts are undoubtedly indulgent, there are ways to make them slightly healthier without compromising too much on flavor. Here are a few tips for making a lighter version:

1. Choose Leaner Cuts of Bacon:

Opt for turkey bacon or center-cut bacon to reduce the fat content while still keeping the savory, smoky flavor. Both options have less fat than traditional pork bacon.

2. Use Low-Fat or Light Cream Cheese:

For a lower-fat stuffing, consider using low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt has a tangy flavor that works well in stuffed chicken, and it adds protein while cutting down on calories.

3. Add More Veggies to the Stuffing:

Increase the nutritional value by loading your stuffing with more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, onions, or zucchini. These additions not only boost the fiber and vitamin content but also add color and texture to the dish.

4. Bake Rather Than Fry:

Instead of searing the chicken in oil before baking, bake it directly in the oven or air fryer. This eliminates extra fat from frying and helps the chicken cook in its own juices, keeping it moist without the need for added fat.

5. Serve with a Side Salad:

Instead of serving with heavy sides like mashed potatoes, consider pairing the bacon-wrapped chicken with a light, fresh salad. This adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and bacon.

Creative Presentation Ideas

When serving bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts, presentation can make a big difference in elevating the dining experience. Here are some creative ideas for plating and serving:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs:

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary adds both visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor. The green herbs provide a nice contrast to the golden-brown bacon.

2. Serve on a Wooden Platter:

For a rustic presentation, serve the chicken on a wooden board or platter. This works especially well if you’re serving multiple portions at a gathering, as it gives the meal a casual yet upscale feel.

3. Drizzle with Sauce:

For extra flair, drizzle a complementary sauce over the chicken. A balsamic reduction, creamy garlic sauce, or honey mustard glaze all pair well with bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts. Use a spoon to artistically drizzle the sauce over the chicken or around the plate for a modern look.

4. Create a “Nest” of Vegetables:

Serve the chicken on a bed of sautéed vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or roasted sweet potatoes. This not only adds color but also enhances the nutritional profile of the meal.

5. Slice and Serve:

If you’re serving the chicken at a dinner party or event, consider slicing the bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken into medallions. Arrange them in a fan pattern on the plate and garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for a fine-dining feel.

Final Thoughts

Bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts are a showstopper of a dish that combines savory, smoky bacon with tender, juicy chicken and a rich stuffing of your choice. From preparing the chicken and stuffing to selecting the best cooking method and serving suggestions, this guide has covered everything you need to know to make a memorable meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this dish is versatile enough to impress and satisfy.

Don’t forget to experiment with variations on the stuffing and bacon wrapping. Try adding different herbs, vegetables, or cheeses, or even switch up the stuffing to suit your dietary needs or preferences. With a little creativity and the right techniques, bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts can become a go-to recipe in your cooking repertoire.

Bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts are a versatile and delicious dish that combines the best of both worlds—crispy bacon and tender, juicy chicken with your choice of savory fillings. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to prepare a meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the stuffing, whether you prefer creamy cheeses, earthy vegetables, or smoky bacon. Whatever variation you choose, the end result will be a meal that satisfies the taste buds and delights the senses.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite of your bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts!

Yield: 4

Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

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Bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts are a fantastic way to elevate a simple chicken dish. The crispy bacon encases the chicken, adding a delightful crunch, while the stuffing can be tailored to your tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you want a rich and creamy stuffing or a light, vegetable-packed filling, the possibilities are endless. The bacon not only provides a delicious flavor but also helps to keep the chicken moist while baking, ensuring a juicy and tender result.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz. each)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil or melted butter (for searing)
• 12 slices of bacon (thick-cut for better wrapping)
• Toothpicks (optional, for securing bacon)
• For the Stuffing (Basic Recipe):
• 1 cup cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Optional Add-ins for Stuffing:
• 1/2 cup spinach, chopped (or any other greens)
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon crumbles (for added flavor)
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (diced)
• 1/4 cup mushrooms (sautéed)
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (e.g., thyme or rosemary)
• 1/4 cup cooked quinoa or rice (for a heartier filling)
• For Cooking:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter for searing)
• Optional: 1/4 cup chicken broth (for baking)
• Tools Needed:
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl (for the stuffing)
• Toothpicks (if needed)
• Baking dish
• Cast iron skillet (for searing)
• Oven preheated to 375°F (190°C)

Instructions

Step 1: Trim the Chicken Breasts

• Start by trimming any excess fat or skin from the chicken breasts. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove the skin or any uneven areas of the breast. It’s best to leave the chicken in one whole piece, rather than cutting it into separate pieces.

Step 2: Butterfly the Chicken

• Butterfly the chicken breasts to create a pocket for the stuffing. Place the chicken breast on a cutting board and hold it flat. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally into the thickest part of the chicken, making sure not to cut all the way through. You want to create a flap that can open up, creating enough room for the stuffing.
• If the chicken is particularly thick, you may want to use a meat mallet to gently pound it down to an even thickness for easier cooking.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

• Season the inside and outside of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. If you want to add more flavor, you can include a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder.

Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing

• While you can use store-bought stuffing or skip it altogether, homemade stuffing enhances the overall flavor. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well-combined.

Notes

Stuffing Variations: Feel free to adjust the stuffing based on your preferences. You can add vegetables (like spinach or mushrooms), different cheeses (cheddar, mozzarella, goat cheese), or meats (crumbled bacon or sausage) to suit your taste.

Bacon Selection: Using thick-cut bacon helps ensure that the bacon crisps up properly and provides better flavor and texture. If using thinner bacon, be mindful that it may cook faster and can become overdone.

Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you may want to gently pound them with a meat mallet to even out their thickness before butterflying them. This ensures more even cooking and prevents the bacon from overcooking while the chicken remains raw in the center.

Cooking Method: The air fryer gives a quick and crispy result, while the oven and skillet method help lock in moisture. Choose based on the texture you desire. Searing the chicken before baking or grilling gives it a nice golden crust.

Toothpicks: If using toothpicks to secure the bacon, be sure to remove them before serving to avoid any surprises for your guests.

Leftovers: Bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or use the microwave. You may want to pop them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to re-crisp the bacon.

Freezing: You can also freeze uncooked bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts for up to 3 months. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as directed.

Alternative Stuffing Ideas: If you prefer a lighter stuffing, Greek yogurt or light cream cheese can be substituted for regular cream cheese, and you can add roasted vegetables or quinoa for extra flavor.