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Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

A hearty dish that layers seasoned chicken breasts with tangy BBQ sauce, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon; all made in one skillet for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Pound thicker breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • 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
For Topping
  • 8 slices bacon Cook until crispy.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese For extra smoky flavor, use smoked cheddar.
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce Choose a favorite BBQ sauce.
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for extra 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 drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble into small pieces.
  4. Rub both sides of each chicken breast with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  5. In the same skillet, heat on medium-high and cook the seasoned chicken breasts for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden-brown.
  6. While the chicken cooks, chop the green onions.
Cooking
  1. Reduce heat to medium and pour barbecue sauce over the chicken.
  2. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and crumbled bacon over the chicken.
  3. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and cheese is bubbly.
Serving
  1. Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped green onions on top. Optionally, add red pepper flakes for heat.
  2. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or warm bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container.