Cheesy Chicken Breast Bake
Imagine gathering around the table. As the golden, bubbly Cheesy Chicken Breast Bake is set down. The scent of crispy bacon. Mingling with rich, melted cheese. And tender chicken. Promising a bite. That feels like a warm embrace. This dish is more than just a meal. It's a heartwarming symphony of flavors. Where each ingredient. Sings in harmony. The creamy blend of spices in the ranch cream cheese. Adds a whisper of surprise. Turning a simple dinner. Into an unforgettable experience. It’s not just food. It’s a moment. Where laughter is shared. Stories are told. And memories are made. All woven together. By the comforting, indulgent layers. Of this delectable bake.
4 Servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon diced
FOR THE CHICKEN:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 4 1 lb total boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to ¼-inch thickness
- Salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked or sweet paprika
FOR THE RANCH CREAM CHEESE:
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp dried dill weed
- ½ tsp dried chives
- 4 oz shredded cheddar cheese white or yellow - I use a little of both
FOR GARNISH:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Sliced green scallions
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare: Start by heating your oven to 400˚F. Spray a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook Bacon: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crispy, then set it aside. Keep the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Brown Chicken: Mix vegetable oil with the bacon fat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook in the skillet until golden on each side, adding butter when you flip them. Then, place the chicken in the baking dish.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and chives. Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Assemble: Spread the cream cheese mixture over each chicken breast. Top with half the bacon and shredded cheese.
- Bake: Cook in the oven for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is done and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with the remaining bacon, parsley, and scallions before serving.
Notes
To enjoy our Cheesy Chicken Breast Bake. With a gluten-free twist. It’s all about selecting the right ingredients. With a touch of care. Dive into the labels of your bacon and cheeses. Ensuring they’re free. From hidden gluten-containing additives. The same goes for your butter and cream cheese. Although naturally gluten-free. It's essential to verify there's no cross-contamination. Spices, are the soul of any dish. Should also be checked. For a gluten-free certification. To avoid any unintended gluten presence. By keeping a vigilant eye. On these details. You transform this dish. Into a gluten-free haven. Offering not just a meal. But a gesture of inclusivity. And thoughtfulness. Ensuring everyone can gather around the table. For a share of warmth. And deliciousness.