Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken
A mouthwatering dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts The star of the dish, providing protein.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Adds moisture and helps the spices adhere.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Essential for depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder Enhances the savory profile.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Brings a smoky, intense flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt Essential for taste.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper Adds subtle heat.
- 8 slices bacon Crispy goodness that elevates the dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Offers a rich, creamy element.
- ½ cup barbecue sauce Coats the chicken and adds tang.
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped For a fresh finish.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional, for additional spice.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients for a streamlined cooking process.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the strips of bacon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until crispy, then remove and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease. Crumble the bacon and set aside.
- Rub olive oil on both sides of each chicken breast. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.
- Sear the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden-brown.
- Reduce the heat to medium and pour barbecue sauce over the chicken. Allow the sauce to soak in.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the chicken.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and spread it over the cheese layer.
- Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
- Sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving.
- Optional: If desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Notes
Allow the chicken to rest a few minutes after baking to help the juices redistribute. For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in barbecue sauce beforehand.