Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of bacon
- 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Toothpicks
- Meat mallet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the chicken breasts, spreading it over one half of each breast.
5. Fold the other half of each chicken breast over the cheese mixture to create a pocket.
6. Wrap each chicken breast with a slice of bacon, securing it with toothpicks.
7. Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
9. Remove the toothpicks before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 365
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Sodium: 570mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.
- You can substitute the parsley with any other fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary.
- You can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a healthier option.
Variations:
- You can add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- You can use prosciutto instead of bacon for a different flavor profile.
- You can grill the chicken breasts instead of baking them for a smoky flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness so they cook evenly.
- Use toothpicks to secure the bacon and prevent it from unraveling during cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the chicken breasts on a bed of mixed greens for a colorful presentation.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor and color.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs
- Paprika
- Lemon wedges
Pairings:
- Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Rice pilaf or quinoa salad
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Garlic bread
- Grilled corn on the cob
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bacon is not crispy enough, you can broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end of cooking to crisp up the bacon.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- The combination of bacon and cheese stuffed inside chicken breasts is a popular dish in American cuisine.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, cheesy, smoky, and slightly salty.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the chicken breasts hot with your favorite side dishes.
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