Herb and Cheese Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Chicken
Elevate your poultry game with this delightful recipe for Herb and Cheese Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Chicken. The succulent boneless skinless chicken breasts are thoughtfully slit to create pockets bursting with creamy goat cheese, aromatic sage, and the aromatic zing of garlic. Each breast is then enveloped in crispy bacon, delivering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal, this dish can be customized with various herbs and cheeses from your pantry, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Serve with seasonal vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
2
Servings
370
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 (whole)
soft goat's cheese or shredded mozzarella cheese
2 ounces (softened)
bacon strips
4 (whole)
sage leaves
1 tablespoon (minced)
garlic cloves
2 (minced (optional))
olive oil
1 tablespoon (for drizzling)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Using a sharp knife, carefully make a slit in the side of each chicken breast to create a pocket for stuffing.
3
In a small bowl, combine half of the goat cheese, half the minced garlic (if using), and half the minced sage. Mix until well incorporated.
4
Stuff each chicken breast with the cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution.
5
Wrap two strips of bacon around each stuffed chicken breast, securing the filling further.
6
Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil to enhance flavor and promote browning.
7
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
8
Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite side dishes to complete your meal.
Nutrition Information
26g
Fat
1g
Carbs
28g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Herb and Cheese Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Chicken?
It is a savory dish featuring chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy blend of goat cheese, sage, and garlic, then wrapped in crispy bacon and baked to perfection.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 2 servings.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients include boneless skinless chicken breasts, soft goat's cheese or mozzarella, bacon strips, fresh sage leaves, garlic, and olive oil.
What type of cheese is recommended for the stuffing?
The recipe recommends using either soft goat's cheese for a tangy flavor or shredded mozzarella cheese for a milder, melty texture.
Can I use mozzarella instead of goat cheese?
Yes, mozzarella is an excellent substitute if you prefer a different flavor profile.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for optimal cooking.
How long does the chicken need to bake?
The chicken should bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
How do I create a pocket in the chicken for stuffing?
Using a sharp knife, carefully make a horizontal slit in the side of each chicken breast to create a pocket.
Is the garlic required for this recipe?
No, the minced garlic is listed as an optional ingredient to enhance the aromatic profile.
Can I use dried sage instead of fresh sage?
Yes, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh ones.
How many strips of bacon are used per chicken breast?
The recipe calls for wrapping two strips of bacon around each stuffed chicken breast.
Is this recipe low in carbohydrates?
Yes, this dish contains only 1 gram of carbohydrates per serving, making it very low-carb.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 370 calories.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are 28 grams of protein per serving in this dish.
Is this recipe suitable for a ketogenic diet?
Yes, with its high protein and fat content and very low carbohydrates, it is keto-friendly.
What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
It pairs beautifully with seasonal vegetables, a fresh green salad, or roasted potatoes.
Should I let the chicken rest after cooking?
Yes, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving helps keep the meat juicy.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
You can use thighs, though they may require more bacon and a slightly different stuffing technique due to their size.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Ensure the bacon is wrapped tightly around the pocket and avoid overfilling the chicken.
What is the purpose of the olive oil?
Drizzling the chicken with olive oil helps enhance the flavor and promotes even browning of the bacon.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can stuff and wrap the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the best way to reheat this chicken?
Reheating in an oven or air fryer is best to maintain the crispiness of the bacon.
Can I swap sage for other herbs?
Certainly; thyme, rosemary, or parsley are great alternatives depending on your preference.
How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used, though it may not provide the same level of crispiness or fat as pork bacon.
What kind of baking dish should I use?
A standard glass or ceramic baking dish works perfectly for this recipe.
How many grams of fat are in a serving?
There are 26 grams of fat per serving.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for quick family meals or gourmet-style dinners.