This recipe creates a decadent and flavorful Bacon-Wrapped Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast, a dish that’s both impressive and surprisingly easy to prepare. Tender chicken breasts are stuffed with a creamy, herbed cream cheese filling, then wrapped in crispy bacon and baked to perfection. The combination of savory bacon, creamy filling, and moist chicken creates a symphony of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This dish is perfect for a special occasion dinner, a romantic date night, or simply when you want to elevate your weeknight meal. The versatility of the filling allows for endless customization, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 slices bacon
- Optional: Toothpicks, for securing bacon
- Optional: Olive oil, for drizzling
- Optional: Fresh herbs, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing horizontally through the thickest part, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open them up like a book.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, chopped chives, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Stuff the Chicken: Divide the cream cheese filling evenly among the chicken breasts. Spread the filling over one side of each butterflied chicken breast, then fold the other side over to enclose the filling.
- Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each stuffed chicken breast with two slices of bacon, overlapping slightly to cover as much of the chicken as possible. Secure the bacon with toothpicks, if desired.
- Bake: Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts on a baking sheet. If desired, drizzle with a little olive oil for extra crispiness. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Rest: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the toothpicks, if used. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired. Serve the Bacon-Wrapped Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast hot.
Tips and Notes:
- Chicken Breast Size: Use chicken breasts that are about 6 ounces each for best results. Adjust cooking time accordingly if using larger or smaller breasts.
- Cream Cheese Temperature: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth filling.
- Cheese Variations: You can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Gruyere instead of cheddar.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
- Garlic Variations: Roasted garlic or garlic powder can be used instead of minced garlic.
- Bacon Choice: Use thick-cut bacon for a more substantial and flavorful wrap.
- Toothpicks: Toothpicks are optional, but they help to secure the bacon and prevent it from unraveling during baking.
- Olive Oil: Drizzling with olive oil adds extra crispiness to the bacon and helps to prevent it from sticking to the baking sheet.
- Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the chicken breasts. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side salad.
- Filling Variations: Get creative with the filling! Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
This Bacon-Wrapped Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a show-stopping dish that’s sure to impress your guests. Its combination of savory bacon, creamy filling, and moist chicken makes it a truly unforgettable meal. Enjoy!