Description
How to make Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken with smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and melted cheddar that your whole family will devour.
Ingredients
- Main Components:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- Flavor Builders:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Seasonings:
- 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: Cook bacon until crispy. Remove, crumble, and set aside. Sauté diced yellow onion in the rendered bacon fat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This builds a rich flavor foundation.
- Sauté Chicken: Add olive oil to the pan. Sauté chicken breast strips until lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken to a gentle simmer, coating evenly. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Bake Chicken: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden, finishing this Cowboy BBQ creation.
- Rest & Garnish: Let the Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and sliced green onions.
- Serve Warm: Serve this ultimate Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken warm with your favorite sides. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner and sure to become a cherished recipe. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Notes
Always rest your Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken for 5 minutes after baking to ensure maximum tenderness.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness.
Chicken thighs are a great substitute; monterey jack or Colby blend work well for cheese.
Serve warm with creamy mashed potatoes, a crisp garden salad, or warm, buttery cornbread.
Cook bacon and prepare the sauce mixture up to two days in advance; store separately.
Sauté onions in bacon fat for essential flavor depth; sear chicken aggressively for caramelized crusts.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten, Fish