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Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

This Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken hits all the cravings: smoky, cheesy, savory, and a touch of barbecue sweetness, making it a hearty, crowd-pleasing main dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southwestern
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Bacon
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Pound thicker breasts to an even thickness.
  • 8 slices bacon Cook until crispy for best texture.
Seasoning and Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce Choose a flavor you enjoy.
Toppings
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Alternative suggestions: pepper jack, smoked gouda, or Monterey Jack.
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped For garnish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional, for added heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
  3. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
  4. Crumble the cooled bacon into small pieces and set aside.
  5. Rub both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil and season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Cooking
  1. In a hot, large oven-safe skillet, sear the chicken breasts for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  2. Reduce heat to medium and pour barbecue sauce over the chicken evenly.
  3. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the barbecue sauce.
  4. Crumble the cooked bacon over the cheese and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
  5. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted.
  6. Remove from the oven and top with chopped green onions and red pepper flakes if using.
  7. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For serving, pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or greens, and consider sides like grilled corn, coleslaw, or bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.