(A juicy chicken breast stuffed with melty cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon, perfect for a special dinner)
Ingredients:
4 chicken breasts
100 g cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or spreadable cheese)
8 slices bacon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sweet paprika (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Using a knife, make an incision in the center of each chicken breast to form a pocket without cutting all the way through.
Prepare the Stuffing:
Mix the cheese, minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl.
Stuff each chicken breast with the cheese mixture, making sure to close the pocket tightly. You can use toothpicks to hold the stuffing in place.
Wrap the Chicken:
Wrap each stuffed breast with 2 slices of bacon, overlapping them slightly to cover the entire surface.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Sear the bacon-wrapped breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the bacon begins to brown.
Sprinkle with paprika if desired, then transfer the pan to the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 75°C/165°F).
Serve:
Remove the toothpicks before serving. Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy this comforting and indulgent dish!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Notes:
Variation: Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the stuffing for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Tips: For crispier bacon, broil the fillets for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.