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, 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 family dinners or meal prep!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish fits easily into your busy schedule.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and cheddar creates a creamy delight that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Suitable for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to gatherings with friends.
• Low Carb & Keto Friendly: This recipe is perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet without compromising on taste.
• Kid-Friendly: The flavors and textures are sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Casserole dish
• Measuring spoons
• Sharp knife
• Chopping board
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole dish: Ideal for baking the chicken evenly while retaining moisture.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when slicing chicken breasts and cream cheese, making preparation easier.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

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

For the Topping

• 6 oz cream cheese (cold, refrigerated, sliced into 8 slices)
• 8 strips Turkey Bacon (cooked, 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).

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Dish

Grease the bottom of your casserole dish with olive oil. A 13-inch x 9-inch x 4-inch deep oval casserole dish works well for this recipe.

Step 3: Add Chicken Breasts

Place the chicken breasts in the greased casserole dish. You can use four thin chicken breasts or slice two large thick ones in half horizontally to create four thin pieces.

Step 4: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over each chicken breast.

Step 5: Top with Cream Cheese

Lay slices of cold cream cheese over the seasoned chicken. Ensure the cream cheese is right out of the fridge for optimal texture.

Step 6: Add Turkey Bacon

Distribute chopped cooked turkey bacon evenly on top of the cream cheese layer. Make sure it is drained from excess fat.

Step 7: Finish with Cheddar Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over everything to add that final cheesy touch.

Step 8: Bake Until Done

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

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delicious Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken!

How to Serve Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

Serving Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli – Bright green and tender, steamed broccoli adds a fresh crunch that balances the creamy chicken.
• Roasted Asparagus – Toss asparagus in olive oil and roast until tender for a savory complement to the dish.

Over a Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – A simple salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a light contrast to the richness of the chicken.
• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with a creamy dressing pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the chicken.

With Starches

• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower – A low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, this side is creamy and flavorful.
• Quinoa Pilaf – Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs adds a nutty flavor that complements the chicken well.

How to Perfect Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

To make your Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken even better, follow these tips for a perfect result every time.

• Use thin chicken breasts – Thin chicken breasts cook more evenly and quickly than thicker cuts, ensuring juiciness without drying out.
• Keep cream cheese cold – Using cold cream cheese helps it maintain its shape while baking, creating a delightful layer on top.
• Cook turkey bacon until crispy – Crispy turkey bacon adds texture and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Check doneness with a meat thermometer – Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain its juices for maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options you can consider.

1. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for mopping up any leftover creamy sauce.
2. Zucchini Noodles – Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a fresh and healthy alternative to pasta.
3. Cauliflower Rice – Fluffy cauliflower rice serves as an excellent low-carb base that soaks up flavors beautifully.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice add both nutrition and vibrant color to your plate.
5. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots adds freshness and tanginess to balance the richness of the chicken.
6. Sweet Potato Fries – Baked sweet potato fries bring natural sweetness and crunch that pairs well with savory dishes.
7. Sautéed Spinach – Quick-cooked spinach with garlic offers a nutritious boost while being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using warm cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is cold and sliced thin. This helps it melt evenly over the chicken.
• Not seasoning the chicken: Always sprinkle salt and pepper on your chicken before baking. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Overcrowding the casserole dish: Don’t overcrowd your chicken in the dish. Each piece should have space for even cooking.
• Ignoring cooking time: Check your chicken’s internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked. Cooking times may vary based on thickness.
• Skipping the grease step: Grease your casserole dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers to keep them fresh.
• They can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering it until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?

You can substitute regular bacon if desired; just cook it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken is great for meal prep and can be stored in individual portions.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives to suit dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Bacon, Cream Cheese, Cheddar Chicken is a deliciously rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it easily based on your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful meal that’s both simple and flavorful!