Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy delight that will have your taste buds dancing? Introducing the Four Cheese Bacon Stuffed Chicken Casserole—a dish that takes comfort food to a whole new level! Imagine succulent chicken breasts filled with a mouthwatering blend of four irresistible cheeses and crispy bacon, all baked to perfection. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that promises to impress your family and friends. With just an hour of your time, you can create a dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Get ready to dive into a cheesy, savory adventure that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6-8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown. Remove bacon from the pan and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- Prepare the chicken breasts by trimming any excess fat. Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by cutting horizontally through the thickest part, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and provolone cheese. Mix thoroughly to create the cheese and bacon filling.
- Stuff each chicken breast pocket generously with the cheese and bacon mixture, pressing gently to seal the opening. If needed, secure with toothpicks to keep the filling intact.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are not overlapping. Sprinkle any remaining cheese mixture over the top of the chicken.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes the chicken more tender.
- Carefully remove any toothpicks before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts to ensure easy stuffing and even cooking. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- Crisp the Bacon: Make sure to cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful crunch to the casserole.
- Mix Your Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations! Adding a bit of gouda or fontina can elevate the flavor profile even more.
- Seal the Stuffing: When stuffing the chicken, press the filling firmly to avoid any spillage during baking. Toothpicks can be a great help to keep the pockets closed.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken extra tender and juicy.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's freshness and flavor.
- Serve with Sides: Pair this casserole with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal that balances the richness of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 42g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 135mg
