Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

Looking for easy baked chicken recipes? Do you like chicken and cream cheese together? Then, this Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken is a great choice! Super easy to make with simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, this recipe is low carb, high fat, KETO friendly, and gluten-free.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of turkey bacon, cream cheese, and cheddar creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or meal prep for the week ahead.
• Healthy Option: This dish is low in carbs and packed with protein and healthy fats.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this cheesy and savory chicken bake.

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Tools and Preparation

To make this Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken successfully, gather your tools beforehand. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Casserole dish
• Cooking spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole dish: A good casserole dish ensures even cooking and allows for easy serving.
• Cooking spoon: This tool helps mix ingredients thoroughly without damaging the chicken.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the chicken breasts easy and safe.
• Cutting board: Provides a clean surface to prepare your ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

Chicken

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 chicken breasts (use 4 thin chicken breasts or 2 large chicken breasts sliced in half horizontally)
• Salt and pepper

Toppings

• 6 oz cream cheese (cold, refrigerated, and sliced into 8 slices)
• 8 strips turkey bacon (cooked and chopped)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)

How to Make Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for ensuring that your chicken cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Dish

Grease the bottom of your casserole dish with olive oil. A 13-inch x 9-inch x 4-inch deep oval casserole dish works well for this recipe.

Step 3: Add Chicken Breasts

Place the chicken breasts into the prepared casserole dish. If using large thick chicken breasts, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner pieces.

Step 4: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken breasts to enhance their flavor.

Step 5: Top with Cream Cheese

Lay the slices of cold cream cheese on top of the seasoned chicken. This adds a creamy texture that blends beautifully during baking.

Step 6: Add Turkey Bacon

Sprinkle the chopped cooked turkey bacon over the cream cheese layer. Make sure it’s drained from excess fat for better results.

Step 7: Sprinkle Cheddar Cheese

Finally, top everything off with shredded cheddar cheese. This will melt into a delicious golden layer while baking.

Step 8: Bake the Chicken

Bake uncovered for about 20-30 minutes. The cooking time will depend on how thick your chicken breasts are. Ensure they are cooked through before serving.

How to Serve Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

Serving Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken can enhance your dining experience. This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes.

With Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.

Over Cauliflower Rice

• Serve this dish over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that soaks up the flavors.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pairing with steamed broccoli or asparagus adds color and nutrients to your plate.

On a Bed of Spinach

• Lay the chicken on fresh spinach for a nutritious twist that wilts slightly from the heat.

Topped with Avocado

• Sliced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken, consider these helpful tips:

• Use cold cream cheese: This helps maintain structure when baking and prevents it from becoming too runny.

• Cook bacon until crispy: Crispy turkey bacon adds texture and flavor that elevates the dish.

• Season generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances all flavors in the recipe.

• Check doneness with a thermometer: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption while remaining juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

When serving Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken, choosing the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy, flavorful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes that fits perfectly into a keto diet.

2. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a fresh contrast to the rich chicken.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add crunch and a touch of bitterness that balances the dish.

4. Crispy Kale Chips: These are easy to make and bring a satisfying crunch alongside your cheesy chicken bake.

5. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can cut through the richness of the chicken and add a refreshing crunch.

6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Packed with veggies or protein, they create an appealing presentation on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken, it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using warm cream cheese – Make sure your cream cheese is cold and sliced. This helps it hold its shape better while baking.
• Overcooking the chicken – Keep an eye on your cooking time. Overcooked chicken can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s just cooked through.
• Neglecting seasoning – Don’t skip the salt and pepper! Proper seasoning enhances flavor and makes the dish more enjoyable.
• Skipping the bacon prep – Always cook your turkey bacon first and drain any excess fat. This keeps your dish from becoming greasy.
• Choosing thick chicken breasts – Opt for thin chicken breasts for even cooking. If using large ones, slice them in half horizontally for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm. Cover with a microwave-safe lid to keep moisture.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken that might help you out!

Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?

Yes, you can substitute regular bacon if you prefer a different flavor. Just adjust the fat content as needed.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be considered safe to eat.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that complements the richness of the chicken.

Final Thoughts

This Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite spices or vegetables. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!