Go Back

Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

A crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner featuring smoky barbecue, crispy bacon, and melty cheddar over juicy seared chicken.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and seasoning
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Pound to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For rubbing on chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
  • 8 slices bacon Cook until crispy.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Can substitute with smoked cheddar or pepper jack.
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce Use a good-quality sauce you enjoy.
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped For garnish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for spice.

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 bacon and let it drain on paper towels, then crumble and set aside.
  4. Rub chicken breasts with olive oil and season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Cooking
  1. In a hot oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add the seasoned chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  2. Reduce heat to medium, pour barbecue sauce over the chicken, sprinkle cheese, and crumble bacon on top.
  3. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
  4. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and optional red pepper flakes before serving.

Notes

For best results, don't skip the sear for flavor and texture. If skillet isn't oven-safe, transfer to a baking dish before adding toppings.