Picture this: the smoky scent of BBQ wafting through the air, laughter bubbling over, and friends gathering around the grill. That’s the magic of summer cookouts! Get ready for COWBOY BBQ BACON CHEDDAR CHICKENa dish that’s stealing hearts on TikTok and Pinterest for good reason. It’s delicious and totally irresistible!
This easy meal takes tender chicken, crispy bacon, and melty cheddar and transforms them into a cozy, crowd-pleasing delight. Think of it as your grandma’s comfort food, but on a faster track! Just toss it together for a quick and satisfying family dinner. Full details in the blog!
Growing up, my kitchen was always a flurry of flavors and family. I love whipping up recipes that spark those joyful memories. This one is no exceptionI tested it, and I promise, you’ll love the secret to making it shine!
Enjoy this Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken, a flavorful dish perfect for Bbq Cookout Food and Easy Bbq Recipes lovers. It features tender chicken with crispy bacon and cheddar cheese smothered in zesty BBQ sauce for a satisfying Bbq Chicken Dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
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
8 slices bacon
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1⁄2 cup barbecue sauce
1⁄4 cup green onions chopped
1⁄2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
Set your oven to 400°F and let it heat.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp, about 5 to 7 minutes, then transfer to paper towels to drain and crumble once cooled.
Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Heat a large oven-safe skillet on medium-high and sear chicken for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown.
Lower heat to medium and spread barbecue sauce over the chicken, then sprinkle cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped green onions and, if desired, add red pepper flakes for heat.
Let the chicken rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For crisp tops, broil 2–3 minutes at the end
Use thick-cut bacon for stronger flavor
Increase red pepper flakes or add hot sauce for more spice
Sear chicken well before baking for best crust
Rest chicken after baking to keep it juicy
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Category:Dinner
Method:Baked
Cuisine:American
Nutrition
Calories:550
Why It’s a Family Favorite
This Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken recipe brings back wonderful memories of cozy family dinners and good ol’ summer cookouts. Imagine your loved ones gathered around, smiles all around, as the aroma of crispy bacon and melted cheddar fills the air. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up a hearty meal that pleases both kids and adults alike!
Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, but it also feels special enough for those weekend meals when you want to treat your family without spending all day in the kitchen. With flavors that entice and ingredients that are simple and familiar, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your weeknight rotation.
Ingredients Breakdown
Before we dive into cooking, let’s chat about the star ingredients that make this dish shine:
Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy, these boneless beauties are the perfect base for all those rich flavors.
Bacon: Crispy, salty goodness that adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
Cheddar Cheese: Melted, gooey cheesy goodness that enriches the savory experience.
BBQ Sauce: The hero of this dish, providing that sweet and tangy flavor we all adore.
Green Onions: A refreshing crunch that brightens up the richness of the bacon and cheese.
Simple Steps to Make It
Ready to bring this flavorful cowboy classic to life? Here’s a step-by-step guide that will have you cooking like a pro in no time!
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon for about 5-7 minutes until crispy. Remove and let it drain on paper towels.
While the bacon cools, rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season them with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
In the same skillet, sear the seasoned chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Don’t rush; this step is crucial for getting that savory crust!
Reduce the heat to medium and pour the barbecue sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle cheddar cheese generously on top, followed by crumbled bacon.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbling.
Finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and optional red pepper flakes for a little kick!
Pro Tips & Variations
Want to make the most out of this recipe? Here are some handy tips and tweaks to really personalize your Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken:
Pro Tip: Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and flavor.
If you like it spicy, don’t hold back on those red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce in the BBQ sauce.
Feel free to swap in your favorite cheesepepper jack adds a fantastic zing!
How to Serve & Store
This Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken can be served on its own or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for an even heartier meal. For leftovers (if you have any!), store in an airtight container. Here are a few tips:
Storage Method
Time
Refrigerator
Up to 4 days
Freezer
Up to 3 months
To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best results. You want that cheesy goodness back to its bubbly state!
Expert Says
Marrying flavors like in Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken not only tantalizes the taste buds but also creates a balanced profile of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. The smoky essence from bacon enhances the umami richness of cheddar, making this dish a perfect choice for a hearty meal that satisfies both hunger and flavor cravings.
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Reddit!
The Adventure of Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken
This Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken had me in stitches on more than one occasion! Between accidentally burning the bacon and forgetting the cheese in the oven, I learned the importance of patience and prep. After several attempts, I finally nailed a recipe that’s juicy, smoky, and has my family requesting it weekly.
FAQs ( Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken )
What is the best way to cook chicken for this recipe?
Grilling or baking are both excellent methods for cooking chicken in this dish. If using a grill, preheat it to medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to check if your chicken is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F at the thickest part of the chicken. Additionally, the juices should run clear when the chicken is cut, not pink.
What sides should I serve with this dish?
This meal pairs beautifully with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw and baked beans. Cornbread or a fresh garden salad can also complement the flavors nicely. Don’t forget some crispy fries or roasted vegetables for a hearty touch.
Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for this recipe. They will provide a richer flavor and remain juicy throughout the cooking process. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly to 165°F.
Conclusion
There you have it! This Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken is not only easy to make, but it also serves up a medley of smoky, cheesy flavors that will have your family raving. With just 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll create a comforting dish that fills the air with the aroma of summer cookouts, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Feeling adventurous? Try swapping in your favorite BBQ sauce or sprinkle in some jalapeños for a spicy kick! Leftovers? Simply pop them in the oven at 350°F for a quick reheat. Trust me, a little tip I learned from my aunt is to serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for an extra cozy meal!
I’d love to hear how your cooking escapades go! Did you grow up enjoying a dish like this? Snap a pic or share your thoughtslet’s keep the conversation going! Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next family gathering. Happy cooking, friends!
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
