Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to dish: cream cheese bacon stuffed chicken! Seriously, this recipe is like a warm hug on a plate. The juicy chicken fillets, stuffed to the brim with rich, creamy goodness, and that crispy bacon? It’s pure magic! I love how easy it is to whip up for a weeknight dinner, yet it feels fancy enough to impress guests. Every bite is a delicious explosion of flavor that brings everyone to the table, eager for more. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be a staple in your kitchen too! Comfort food has never tasted this good!
Ingredients List
To make my cream cheese bacon stuffed chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients. I promise, it’s all pretty straightforward and easy to find!
- 4 chicken fillets – These should be plump and juicy! Look for boneless, skinless ones for the best results.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Let this sit out for a bit to get nice and creamy. Trust me, it makes mixing way easier!
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled – I love using crispy bacon for that crunch factor! You can cook it in advance and crumble it up.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Use the good stuff for extra flavor! You can even mix it up with a blend of cheeses if you’re feeling adventurous.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – This adds a lovely depth of flavor. Fresh garlic works too if you’ve got it on hand!
- 1 tsp onion powder – Just a hint of sweetness and savoriness that complements the other flavors perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t be shy here! Seasoning is key to bringing out all those delicious flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – This is for browning the chicken. It gives it a nice golden crust and helps prevent sticking.
Gather all these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating a mouthwatering dish that’ll have everyone raving!
How to Prepare Cream Cheese Bacon Stuffed Chicken
Now, let’s dive into the process of making this irresistible cream cheese bacon stuffed chicken! Trust me, it’s easier than you might think, and the results are absolutely worth it.
Preheat Your Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden crust. I usually let it heat up while I’m prepping everything else, which takes about 10-15 minutes.
Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine your softened cream cheese, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. I like to use a fork to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. You want to make sure all those delicious flavors are well incorporated! If you’re feeling fancy, you can even add some chopped fresh herbs for an extra kick.
Stuff the Chicken
Now, grab your chicken fillets! Carefully cut a pocket in each fillet by slicing lengthwise, but don’t cut all the way through—just enough to create a nice little pouch for your filling. This part can be a bit tricky, but don’t worry! Just take your time. Once you’ve got your pockets ready, generously stuff each one with that creamy mixture. You want to pack it in there, but be careful not to overfill, or it might ooze out while cooking!
Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, gently place the stuffed chicken fillets in the pan. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned. This step adds so much flavor and gives your chicken a lovely crust. Just be cautious when flipping; those juices can splatter!
Bake the Chicken
After searing, transfer your chicken fillets to a baking dish. Pop them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). I like to use a meat thermometer to be sure!
Let it Rest
Once your chicken is out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This step is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite juicy and tender. Trust me, this wait is worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: You can whip this dish up in just about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich Flavors: The combination of cream cheese, crispy bacon, and cheddar creates an explosion of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Low Carb-Friendly: This stuffed chicken is a great option for those following low-carb diets, so you can indulge without the guilt!
- Impressive Presentation: Serve it up, and it looks fancy enough to impress your guests, but it’s super easy to make!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the filling for a personal touch!
- Leftover Goodness: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), they’re just as delicious the next day!
Tips for Success
To ensure your cream cheese bacon stuffed chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips and tricks!
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Always opt for good-quality chicken fillets and fresh ingredients. Organic or free-range chicken can make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture!
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is truly softened, which makes it easier to mix and helps it blend seamlessly with the other ingredients. Leaving it out for about 30 minutes before you start is usually perfect.
- Don’t Rush the Searing: Take your time when browning the chicken. A good sear adds tons of flavor and creates that beautiful golden crust. If your skillet is too crowded, it won’t brown properly, so work in batches if needed.
- Check the Temperature: Using a meat thermometer is a great way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked without being dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for juicy perfection!
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the filling! Adding herbs like chives or parsley can brighten up the flavors, or you could even swap out the cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Let It Rest: Never skip the resting step after baking! It’s crucial for keeping the chicken juicy. Just 5 minutes of patience goes a long way!
With these tips, you’re all set to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share your table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of this cream cheese bacon stuffed chicken (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), you’ll want to store them properly to keep all that flavor intact. First things first, let the chicken cool down to room temperature before you store it. This helps prevent any condensation from forming, which can make things soggy.
Once cooled, place the stuffed chicken in an airtight container. I like to separate layers with parchment paper if I have multiple pieces, just to keep them from sticking together. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven to maintain that crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. If you want that crispy exterior back, remove the foil for the last few minutes. You’ll be amazed at how delicious it tastes, almost like it’s fresh out of the oven!
Microwaving is a quicker option, but it can make the chicken a bit rubbery. If you go this route, heat it in 30-second intervals on medium power, checking to make sure it doesn’t overcook. Trust me, you want to avoid that!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your delicious cream cheese bacon stuffed chicken even after the first serving. Happy eating!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note: the nutritional information for this cream cheese bacon stuffed chicken can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so it’s not provided precisely. The typical nutritional values I share are estimates and should be taken as a general guide. If you’re following a strict diet or have specific dietary needs, I recommend calculating the nutrition based on your exact ingredients. Enjoy cooking and eating, but always feel free to tweak things to suit your needs!
FAQ Section
I’ve gathered some common questions about my cream cheese bacon stuffed chicken recipe, so let’s tackle them together!
Can I use turkey or pork instead of chicken?
Absolutely! You can use turkey breast or even pork chops if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats may require different cooking times to reach that perfect juiciness.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, you can use ricotta cheese or even a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary a bit, but you’ll still get that creamy goodness!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and stuff it ahead of time. Just cover it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. I recommend baking it fresh, but prepped chicken can be a real time-saver on busy nights!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy it without worry. Just be sure to check any packaged ingredients, like bacon, to ensure they haven’t been processed with gluten-containing products.
What sides pair well with this stuffed chicken?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! A fresh garden salad, steamed veggies, or even some roasted asparagus would complement the rich flavors of the chicken beautifully. You could also serve it with a side of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option!
How do I know if the chicken is cooked through?
Using a meat thermometer is your best friend here! The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, you can cut into the chicken to check that the juices run clear, but a thermometer gives you the most accurate reading.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken! Just make sure it’s properly cooled and wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container. It should keep well in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier!
If you have any more questions, feel free to drop them in the comments! I’m here to help you make the most delicious cream cheese bacon stuffed chicken possible!
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Cream Cheese Bacon Stuffed Chicken: 5 Magic Flavors Inside
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Cream cheese bacon stuffed chicken is a savory dish that combines juicy chicken fillet with a rich cream cheese and crispy bacon filling.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken fillet
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cut a pocket in each chicken fillet.
- Stuff each chicken fillet with the cream cheese mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Brown each stuffed chicken fillet on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Serve with a side salad or vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken fillet
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: cream cheese bacon stuffed chicken, stuffed chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner