Bacon and Cheese Smothered Chicken Recipe

 

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Bacon and Cheese Smothered Chicken:

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 6 slices of bacon
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or sour cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• Optional: chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

---

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

2. Cook the Bacon:
   In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon.

3. Sear the Chicken:
   In the same skillet (leave a bit of the bacon grease for flavor), heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

4. Make the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and heavy cream (or sour cream). Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Assemble:
   Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken and top with crumbled bacon.

6. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Garnish and Serve:
   Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.

Enjoy your cheesy, bacon-covered chicken!