Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken is a tasty mix of juicy chicken topped with crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a rich barbecue sauce that brings everything together. It’s the kind of dish that’s packed with bold flavors and a little smoky kick, making it a real crowd-pleaser at any dinner table.
I love making this dish when I want something hearty but still pretty easy to put together. The combination of bacon and cheese always feels like a little treat, and the barbecue sauce gives it just the right touch of tang and sweetness. I find that the chicken stays super moist and tender, especially if you let it soak up those flavors for a bit before cooking.
My favorite way to serve Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken is with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh salad to keep things balanced. Sometimes, I even pile it on a bun for a quick sandwich that’s perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. It’s that kind of meal that everyone seems to enjoy, and it’s always a hit whether you’re feeding family or friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless are easy to cook and keep the dish simple. If you want more flavor, try bone-in breasts or thighs for juicier meat.
Bacon: This adds crispiness and smoky flavor. Turkey bacon works as a lighter option, but it won’t crisp up quite the same.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts well and has a nice kick. You could swap for Monterey Jack, Colby, or even mozzarella for a milder taste.
Barbecue sauce: Pick your favorite brand or homemade. Sweet, smoky, or spicy variations work—just pick one that suits your taste.
Spices: Smoked paprika is key for smoky depth. If unavailable, regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder can work.
How Do You Get Crispy Bacon Wrapped Around Chicken?
Wrapping bacon around chicken can be tricky because both cook differently. Here’s how to get that perfect crispy bacon without undercooked chicken:
- Start by patting chicken dry and seasoning well.
- Wrap bacon slices snugly so they stick to the chicken.
- Sear chicken in a hot, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat to crisp the bacon first. Turn every 3 minutes to brown all sides.
- Then, finish cooking in the oven to let chicken cook through without burning the bacon.
- Keep an eye on the bacon; if it starts to burn, cover loosely with foil while baking.
This two-step cooking helps the bacon get crispy while the chicken stays juicy and fully cooked. I’ve found that using an oven-safe skillet makes it easier to move from stovetop to oven without losing heat or messing with the bacon wrap.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet – I recommend a cast-iron for even heat and easy transfer from stove to oven.
- Tongs – they make wrapping bacon around chicken and turning it easier without burning your fingers.
- Meat thermometer – helps ensure the chicken is cooked through without overdoing it.
- Baking sheet with wire rack (optional) – if you prefer to cook the bacon separately for extra crispiness.
- Cooking brush – for spreading barbecue sauce evenly over the chicken and bacon.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch up the cheese: try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for different spice levels and flavor profiles.
- Add sliced jalapeños or pickled peppers under the cheese for some heat.
- Use BBQ rubs or spices like cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika for extra smoky flavor.
- Top with chopped cilantro or green onions before serving for a fresh touch.
Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook, including searing and oven baking. You’ll also want to rest the chicken for 5 minutes before serving. So, plan for around 40 minutes total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. Rub each breast evenly with olive oil, then sprinkle the spice mix on both sides for great flavor.
2. Wrap and Sear the Chicken:
Wrap each chicken breast with two slices of bacon, pressing the bacon to stick well. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts and sear each side for about 3 minutes until the bacon looks slightly crispy and browned.
3. Add Toppings and Bake:
Brush a generous layer of barbecue sauce over each piece of chicken. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Then move the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Finish and Serve:
Take the skillet out of the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley to add color and fresh flavor. Enjoy your delicious Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat the chicken dry to remove excess moisture, which helps the bacon crisp up nicely.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Most barbecue sauces contain gluten, so look for a gluten-free barbecue sauce or make your own using gluten-free ingredients. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, avoiding overcooking to keep the chicken tender.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can assemble the chicken wrapped with bacon and seasoned in advance, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. Add the barbecue sauce and cheese just before baking for best results.