Picture this: the savory aroma of sizzling bacon fills your kitchen, an irresistible promise of comfort and flavor. That’s how this recipe for Savory Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breasts with Mozzarella begins—a delightful marriage of juicy chicken and crispy bacon, guaranteed to elevate any dinner table. After a long day, whipping up a meal that feels like a treat doesn’t have to be challenging. This dish radiates warmth and satisfaction, turning a simple weeknight into a cozy occasion.
In just a few straightforward steps, you’ll create a dish that not only impresses your guests but also satisfies your cravings for something hearty and fulfilling. Pair it with a refreshing salad or creamy mashed potatoes, and you have a complete meal perfect for any gathering. Whether enjoyed with family or served at a special celebration, this bacon-wrapped delight will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen repertoire! Ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Chicken Breast with Bacon irresistible?
Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for busy home cooks.
Flavor Explosion: The savory combination of crispy bacon and juicy chicken, enhanced with melted mozzarella, is simply mouthwatering.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or herbs to match your taste preferences.
Quick Cooking: Complete this delightful meal in under 30 minutes, giving you more time to enjoy your evening.
Discover more savory dinner ideas by checking out our other dinner recipes!
Chicken Breast with Bacon Ingredients
• Get ready to create mouthwatering magic!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Juicy and tender, they serve as the star of this savory dish; can be swapped with turkey breast for a leaner option.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Adds creamy richness; feel free to substitute with cheddar or gouda if mozzarella isn’t your favorite.
For the Bacon Wrap
- Bacon – Thick-cut is highly recommended for ultimate crispiness and flavor explosion in your meal.
Seasoning Blend
- Black Pepper – Provides a kick of spice, enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.
- Thyme – A wonderful herb that complements the chicken, adding an aromatic touch.
- Dried Parsley – Brightens up the flavor; swap it with fresh parsley for a taste boost.
- Paprika – Contributes a delightful mild smoky flavor that rounds out the tastes beautifully.
- Garlic Powder – Elevates the overall seasoning; fresh garlic will give a stronger, zesty taste if preferred.
- Salt – Crucial for flavor enhancement, ensuring your dish is perfectly seasoned.
Dive into this satisfying recipe and savor the delightful taste of Chicken Breast with Bacon today!
How to Make Chicken Breast with Bacon
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked chicken that’s juicy inside and crispy outside.
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Mix the seasonings in a bowl: combine black pepper, thyme, dried parsley, paprika, garlic powder, and salt, creating a fragrant spice blend to elevate your chicken.
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Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with the spice mix. This not only adds flavor but also creates a delightful crust when cooked.
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Create pockets in the chicken breasts if you’re using mozzarella cheese. Fill those pockets with mozzarella for a creamy surprise!
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Lay out the bacon strips on a flat surface, and then place the seasoned chicken on top. The bacon will wrap around the chicken, adding scrumptious flavor.
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Roll the bacon around the chicken tightly, ensuring it’s fully enveloped. This keeps all those flavors contained while cooking.
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Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the bacon-wrapped chicken in the skillet (no additional grease needed).
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Cook until the bacon is golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step maximizes the crispiness and flavor of the bacon.
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Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. This helps the chicken finish cooking thoroughly.
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Check that the chicken is fully cooked through by ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before removing it from the oven.
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Let rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breasts with Mozzarella are a great option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken and wrap it in bacon up to 24 hours in advance, keeping the flavors intact. Simply refrigerate the wrapped chicken in an airtight container to maintain its quality. If you prefer, you can also prepare the spice mix and chop up the cheese up to 3 days ahead of time. When you’re ready to cook, just heat your skillet, sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until the bacon is crispy, then transfer it to the oven for another 10 minutes for that delicious, juicy finish. You’ll enjoy a stress-free meal that feels gourmet with minimal effort!
Chicken Breast with Bacon Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists on your chicken dish for a truly personalized experience.
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Cheese Swap: Use cheddar or gouda instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile—both will melt beautifully and add richness. Imagine biting into a warm, cheesy surprise with every forkful!
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Herb Infusion: Add rosemary or oregano for a fragrant twist that elevates your dish. These herbs introduce a lovely aroma and deepen the savory notes of the chicken.
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Turkey Alternative: Swap out chicken for turkey breast for a leaner version that still packs in flavor. Perfect for those looking to lighten up their meals without sacrificing taste.
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Spicy Kick: Include jalapeño slices inside the chicken for a subtle heat that makes your taste buds dance. This adds an exciting layer of flavor that can really wake up the dish!
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Bacon Alternatives: Try turkey bacon or pancetta for a different texture and taste. These options can drastically change the flavor while still keeping it deliciously savory.
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Stuffed Delights: Add spinach or mushrooms inside for extra nutrients and a delightful earthiness. This not only makes the dish more filling but also adds a vibrant garnish of color.
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Cooking Methods: Experiment by grilling these instead of baking for a smoky flavor profile. The grill will lend an irresistible char that complements the savory bacon beautifully.
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Sweet Surprise: Drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the baked chicken before serving for a sweet contrast to the salty bacon. This unexpected twist will leave everyone asking for seconds!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Breast with Bacon
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps your chicken breast with bacon fresh and ready for quick meals.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To keep the bacon crispy, reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Avoid using the microwave if possible.
Cooling: Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it, as this prevents condensation in the container that can make it soggy.
What to Serve with Chicken Breast with Bacon?
Transform your meal into a heartwarming feast with perfect pairings that enhance every delicious bite.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
Silky and buttery, they soak up the savory juices, creating a comforting balance with the crispy chicken. -
Fresh Garden Salad:
The crunch of mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds brightness, cutting through the richness of bacon and cheese. -
Garlic Bread:
Crispy on the outside and soft inside, it’s perfect for mopping up any tasty remnants left on the plate. -
Roasted Vegetables:
Caramelized and sweet, seasonal veggies like carrots and bell peppers add a colorful, nutritious touch to your meal. -
Quinoa Pilaf:
This nutty grain not only elevates your dining experience, but its lightness complements the heartiness of the chicken beautifully. -
Herbed Rice:
Fragrant with fresh herbs, it provides a fluffy and aromatic side that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors. -
Red Wine:
A glass of Merlot or Pinot Noir elegantly enhances the meal, balancing the rich flavors with its fruitiness. -
Lemon Sorbet:
Refreshingly tart, this light dessert cleanses the palate after your savory chicken dish, leaving a lasting impression.
Expert Tips for Chicken Breast with Bacon
- Meat Thermometer: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
- Resting Time: Let the chicken rest after baking; this helps retain its natural moisture and flavor.
- Searing Bacon: Searing the bacon before wrapping the chicken enhances its crispiness, making every bite a delight.
- Careful Seasoning: Don’t skimp on the spice blend; evenly season the chicken to infuse it with rich flavors throughout.
- Cheese Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda, allowing you to tailor the dish to your liking.
Chicken Breast with Bacon Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for ones that are plump and firm, with a pale pink color. Avoid any that have dark spots or a slimy texture. Fresh chicken should have no scent; if it smells odd, it’s best not to use it. If you’re leaning towards a leaner option, turkey breast is a fantastic alternative!
How should I store leftovers of chicken breast with bacon?
Very straightforward! Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Before sealing, ensure the chicken has cooled completely to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze chicken breast with bacon?
Yes, you can! For optimal freezing, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This method keeps your bacon-wrapped chicken fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my bacon isn’t crispy after baking?
If you find that your bacon doesn’t achieve the desired crispiness, don’t worry! A good tip is to sear the bacon-wrapped chicken in a hot skillet before transferring it to the oven. This step helps render the fat and crisp up the bacon. Also, if time permits, you can leave it in the oven a few extra minutes—just be sure to monitor the chicken’s internal temperature.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! This recipe can be enjoyed by most, but if you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, keep in mind that bacon is not suitable for vegetarians or those avoiding pork. Additionally, if anyone has cheese allergies, you can eliminate the mozzarella or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative to accommodate their needs.
How do I know when my chicken breast with bacon is fully cooked?
To guarantee perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast and ensure it reads 165°F (75°C). This guarantees that the chicken is safe to eat while remaining juicy and tender. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part; the juices should run clear with no pink remaining.
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breast: A Savory Home-Cooked Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the seasonings in a bowl: combine black pepper, thyme, dried parsley, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with the spice mix.
- Create pockets in the chicken breasts and fill those pockets with mozzarella.
- Lay out the bacon strips and place the seasoned chicken on top.
- Roll the bacon around the chicken tightly.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and place the bacon-wrapped chicken in it.
- Cook until the bacon is golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 10 minutes.
- Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before removing from the oven.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.