Jim'S Chicken
Juicy chicken breasts filled with ham and melted Muenster cheese, wrapped in bacon for a savory, hearty dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pound chicken breasts thin.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Lay one piece of ham and one piece of cheese on each chicken piece.
- Roll up each chicken breast with the fillings inside.
- Wrap 1 or 2 strips of bacon around each rolled chicken and secure with a toothpick.
- Bake uncovered for about 20 to 30 minutes or until the bacon is done.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use thinly sliced chicken breasts, which will cook evenly and allow the flavors to meld. If you don’t have Muenster cheese, Monterey Jack or Havarti can serve as excellent substitutes. Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. Ensure the bacon is crispy by broiling the dish for the last few minutes, similar to techniques used in Chicken In Cheese Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jim's Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. It pairs beautifully with Risotto-Style Potatoes for a hearty option. Drizzle a light sauce or gravy over the top for added moisture, and consider serving with crusty bread to soak up any juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Jim's Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken rubbery and the bacon less crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jim'S Chicken contains roughly 233 calories, with 19g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 554mg per serving (24% 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 meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute turkey or pork cutlets for the chicken in this recipe. Ensure the meat is pounded thinly to allow for even cooking and proper rolling with the ham and cheese.
What if I want to make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken rolls up to the baking step and then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through.
Can I freeze Jim's Chicken?
Absolutely! After baking, let the chicken cool completely, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm in the oven.
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).