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Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken
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This Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken is an easy, hearty dinner packed with bold flavors. Juicy chicken breasts are seasoned, seared, then topped with smoky BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese. It’s a simple oven-finished dish that feels comforting and satisfying—perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • 8 slices bacon

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • ½ cup barbecue sauce

  • ¼ cup green onions, chopped

  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until crispy, about 5–7 minutes.

  • Remove bacon and place on paper towels to drain. Once cooled, crumble and set aside.

  • Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil on both sides.

  • Season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

  • Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until hot.

  • Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown.

  • Reduce heat to medium and pour the barbecue sauce evenly over the chicken.

  • Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, followed by the crumbled bacon.

  • Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  • Remove from the oven, sprinkle with green onions, and add red pepper flakes if desired.

  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use thick-cut bacon for a meatier texture and stronger smoky flavor.

  • Sear the chicken well before baking to lock in juices and add flavor.

  • Choose a smoky or hickory BBQ sauce to enhance the “cowboy” taste.

  • Rest the chicken after baking to keep it juicy and tender.

  • For extra heat, mix a little hot sauce into the BBQ sauce before adding it to the chicken.

Find it online: https://tastyquickly.com/cowboy-bbq-bacon-cheddar-chicken/