Cheesy Bacon Smothered Chicken – Irresistible Melt-In-Your-Mouth Recipe
This cheesy bacon smothered chicken is the ultimate comfort food—tender grilled chicken breasts covered in melted cheddar, gooey mozzarella, and crispy bacon. It’s juicy, savory, and loaded with flavor in every bite. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing main dish!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice blend all over the chicken breasts to coat them evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil or butter. Once hot, place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F / 74°C).
Optional: You can also grill the chicken for that extra smoky flavor.
3. Add the Cheese:
While the chicken is still hot in the skillet or on a baking tray, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar and mozzarella on top of each breast.
4. Melt the Cheese:
Transfer the skillet or tray to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Top with Bacon:
Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle crumbled bacon on top of the cheesy chicken. The heat will slightly crisp up the bacon more and blend the flavors beautifully.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve hot!
Serving Ideas:
- With creamy mashed potatoes
- Over buttered pasta or rice
- Alongside garlic bread or steamed vegetables
- In a sandwich bun as a cheesy chicken bacon melt
Tips & Variations:
- Want it spicy? Add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Low-carb version? Serve it over cauliflower mash or sautéed spinach.
- Don’t eat pork? Substitute with turkey bacon or skip the bacon entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Thighs stay juicy and work great with this recipe.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, but cheese texture may change slightly. Wrap tightly in foil and store up to 1 month.