Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken
This smoky, cheesy, bacon-topped chicken is a quick meal that impresses at family dinners or backyard cookouts.
Ingredients
Protein
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices bacon Crispy, cooked bacon
Sauce & Cheese
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce Use your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Sharp is recommended for best flavor
Spices & Oil
- 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
Toppings
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for added spice
Instructions
Preparation
- 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 and drain on paper towels, then crumble.
- Rub chicken breasts with olive oil and season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Cooking
- In a hot oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, sear chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Reduce heat to medium, pour barbecue sauce on chicken, sprinkle with cheddar cheese, and crumble bacon on top.
- Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
- Remove from the oven, top with green onions and optional red pepper flakes, and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Pound the chicken lightly if breasts are uneven to ensure uniform cooking. Use an oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal). Taste your barbecue sauce; sweeter sauces may benefit from balancing with lemon juice or hot sauce. Don’t skip the rest time to help juices redistribute for a juicier bite.