Bacon And Cheddar Chicken
Creamy, crispy bacon and melted cheddar top tender chicken breasts, creating a savory dish perfect for comforting dinners and satisfying cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp, then drain and crumble.
- Discard all but three tablespoons of bacon drippings from the skillet.
- Reserve the skillet and bacon.
- Dip each chicken breast into beaten egg, then into seasoned dry breadcrumbs to coat completely.
- Saute the coated chicken in hot bacon drippings for 4 to 5 minutes over medium-high heat until golden brown on both sides.
- When the chicken is nearly cooked, top each piece with shredded cheese.
- Cover the skillet to melt the cheese, then remove from heat.
- Crumble the cooked bacon over the cheesy chicken before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or paprika to the seasoned dry breadcrumbs. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute turkey bacon for the regular bacon, and use whole grain breadcrumbs. Ensure the chicken is pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking. For a twist, try using different types of cheese like pepper jack for added spice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Bacon and Cheddar Chicken with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the bacon drippings. For a complete dinner, consider serving alongside a warm bread roll or a side of New England Corny Clam Chowder.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This will help keep the chicken moist and the cheese melty.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon And Cheddar Chicken contains roughly 663 calories, with 20g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 923mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skin-on chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts. Just be aware that they may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure the skin is crispy and the chicken is cooked through. The extra fat can also add flavor, but be cautious about the amount of bacon drippings you retain.
What can I substitute for the breadcrumbs?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour as a substitute for the breadcrumbs. For a healthier alternative, consider using crushed cornflakes or panko, which will give a nice crunch without compromising the dish's integrity.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
To make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the chicken by coating it in egg and breadcrumbs, then store it in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. Cook the chicken just before serving to ensure it remains crispy, and add the cheese and bacon at the end for optimal flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).