Chicken A La Alice
Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with melted cheeses, wrapped in bacon, and flavored with lemon juice, offering a rich, savory dish perfect for hearty dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create a pocket, then season with lemon juice.
- Stuff each chicken breast with grated Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Wrap each stuffed chicken breast with 1 to 2 slices of bacon, securing with toothpicks.
- Place the wrapped chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for approximately 40 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and chicken is cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice for a few hours before preparing. If you prefer a healthier option, use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. You can also mix in some herbs like thyme or rosemary with the cheese for an aromatic twist. If you're short on time, pre-packaged shredded cheese can save you prep time without sacrificing taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken A La Alice with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. It pairs beautifully with Margie Kitchen's Almond Rice Casserole for a hearty meal. For a complete experience, consider adding a dipping sauce, such as a spicy aioli or ranch dressing, to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken A La Alice should be stored 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 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overheat to maintain the bacon's crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken A La Alice contains roughly 592 calories, with 39g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (79% of the Daily Value), calcium (56% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 918mg 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 other types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Cheddar and Monterey Jack are great choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Swiss, or Pepper Jack for a unique twist. Just ensure the cheese melts well to achieve that gooey texture inside the chicken.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The bacon should also be crispy, providing a nice texture contrast to the tender chicken.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken by stuffing and wrapping it in bacon the night before. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).