Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

Looking for easy baked chicken recipes? Do you like chicken and cream cheese together? Then, this Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, and Cheddar Chicken is a great choice! Super easy to make! And, you use simple ingredients. This chicken bake is low carb, high fat, KETO friendly, and gluten-free. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish comes together in a flash.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The creamy cheese paired with savory turkey bacon creates an irresistible taste.
• Low Carb Delight: Ideal for those following a ketogenic diet or anyone looking to reduce carbs.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or slice it up for meal prep throughout the week.
• Easy Cleanup: One casserole dish means less time washing up after enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools that will help you create this delicious dish effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Casserole dish (13 x 9 inches)
• Measuring spoons
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing through chicken and cream cheese a breeze without tearing.
• Casserole Dish: Using an appropriately sized casserole dish allows even baking and easy serving.
• Measuring Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure perfect flavor balance in your dish.

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Ingredients

To make Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken, you’ll need the following:

For the Chicken Bake

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 chicken breasts (use 4 thin chicken breasts, or use 2 large chicken breasts sliced in half horizontally)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 oz cream cheese (cold, refrigerated, and sliced into 8 slices)
• 8 strips turkey bacon (cooked and chopped)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)

How to Make Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Dish

Grease the bottom of your casserole dish with olive oil. A 13-inch by 9-inch oval casserole dish works perfectly for this recipe.

Step 3: Arrange the Chicken Breasts

Place the chicken breasts in the prepared casserole dish. If using large chicken breasts, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner pieces.

Step 4: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken breasts to enhance their flavor.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese

Top each piece of chicken with slices of cold cream cheese. Ensure they are evenly distributed for consistent melting.

Step 6: Incorporate Turkey Bacon

Sprinkle the chopped cooked turkey bacon over the cream cheese layer. Drain any excess fat before adding it to keep the dish light.

Step 7: Finish with Cheddar Cheese

Top everything off with shredded cheddar cheese. This will melt beautifully while baking.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for about 20-30 minutes. Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your chicken breasts. Check that they are cooked through before serving!

This Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your home! Enjoy every delicious bite!

How to Serve Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

Serving Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, and Cheddar Chicken is simple and enjoyable. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes to enhance its flavors.

Garnish Ideas

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for added color and flavor.
• Sliced Avocado: Serve with slices of creamy avocado for a touch of richness.

Side Pairings

• Steamed Broccoli: A light and nutritious option that complements the richness of the chicken.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative to traditional rice that absorbs flavors well.

Salad Options

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette balances the dish’s creaminess.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and a tangy contrast to the creamy chicken.

How to Perfect Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

Perfecting your Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, and Cheddar Chicken is easy with a few handy tips.

• Use Thin Chicken Breasts: Thin chicken breasts cook more evenly and quickly, ensuring juicy results.
• Let Cream Cheese Soften Slightly: Allowing cream cheese to sit at room temperature for a few minutes helps it spread easily.
• Cook Turkey Bacon Until Crispy: Crisp bacon adds great texture; ensure it’s well cooked before adding it to the dish.
• Check Chicken Temperature: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor depth.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain juices.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

To create a complete meal around your Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, and Cheddar Chicken, consider these delightful side dishes.

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy mash that’s perfect for soaking up sauce and lower in carbs than traditional mashed potatoes.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender; it’s a healthy and colorful side.
3. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini sautéed lightly makes an excellent low-carb pasta substitute.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-rich salad packed with vegetables offers additional nutrients and fibers.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet and nutritious; they provide a lovely contrast to the savory chicken dish.
6. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add crunch and flavor balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using cold chicken: Always start with chicken that’s at room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your chicken with salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances the flavors.
• Overcrowding the dish: Make sure there’s space between each chicken breast in the casserole dish. This allows them to cook evenly.
• Not checking doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is properly cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
• Using warm cream cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is cold and sliced thinly for even melting and distribution.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (1-2 minutes) until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken that might help you out!

How can I customize my Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. Feel free to swap cheeses based on your preference!

Can I use another type of cheese instead of Cheddar?

Absolutely! You can try mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish keeps well in the fridge and is perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

What can I serve with Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken?

Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Cauliflower rice also makes a great low-carb side!

Final Thoughts

Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken is an easy and delicious recipe that combines creamy goodness with savory flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!