Bacon Wrapped Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a decadent dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with creamy, flavorful fillings and a crispy bacon exterior. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a rich and satisfying meal that impresses with every bite. The chicken is gently pounded and then stuffed with a mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and any additional ingredients like chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the flavor. It’s then wrapped in strips of bacon, which not only add a delightful smokiness but also help keep the chicken moist and tender during cooking. Ideal for a special dinner or a festive occasion, this dish is both indulgent and visually appealing.
Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
- Optional fillings: chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or jalapeños
- 8 slices bacon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butterfly the chicken breasts and use a meat mallet to flatten them to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with green onions and any other optional fillings you choose. Blend well until the mixture is smooth and easy to spread.
- Stuff and Wrap Chicken:
- Lay out the flattened chicken breasts on a clean surface. Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture on one half of each chicken breast. Fold the other half over the top to enclose the filling.
- Wrap each chicken breast with 2 slices of bacon, ensuring the ends are tucked underneath the chicken or secured with toothpicks.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bacon-wrapped chicken, seam side down, and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side or until the bacon is just turning crispy.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
- Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Remove any toothpicks if used.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra chopped green onions or herbs if desired.
This Bacon Wrapped Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful and hearty choice that pairs well with light sides such as steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes to balance the richness of the dish. Its creamy, savory, and smoky flavors make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for those meals where you want to impress your guests with your culinary skills.
