Bacon Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken

Bacon-wrapped cream cheese stuffed chicken is my go-to recipe when I need something that tastes like a labor of love but comes together with just a handful of ingredients. The combination of juicy chicken, garlic and herb cream cheese, and salty bacon transforms simple weeknight ingredients into pure comfort food.

My family first fell for this recipe on a chilly night when we needed something special and satisfying. Now it is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for weeknight meals and dinner parties alike.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender and mild perfect for stuffing
• Cream cheese: Use full-fat for best flavor and smooth texture
• Fresh chives and parsley: Brighten the filling and give a pop of color Try to pick out fresh bundles with vibrant green leaves
• Garlic: Adds savory depth Fresh cloves make all the difference
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning Season both chicken and filling
• Bacon: Adds smokiness and keeps the chicken juicy Thicker bacon works well if you want a crispier finish
• Optional: Shredded cheddar or pepper jack for even more creamy richness
• Optional: Fresh spinach for extra color and nutrition
• Toothpicks: Help keep the chicken rolls secure during baking

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pound the Chicken:

Lay each chicken breast between parchment paper and gently pound with a meat mallet until it is about one quarter inch thick This makes the chicken easy to roll and ensures even cooking

Make the Cream Cheese Filling:

In a small bowl combine softened cream cheese chopped chives parsley minced garlic salt and pepper Mix until completely smooth This creates a flavorful base that melts inside the chicken

Season and Fill:

Lightly season both sides of the pounded chicken breasts with salt and pepper Using a spoon spread two to three tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture down the center of each breast leaving a small border so the filling does not spill out

Roll Up the Chicken:

Starting at one end roll each chicken breast up tightly to encase the filling Use toothpicks to secure the seam and ends so nothing leaks out as the chicken cooks

Wrap with Bacon:

Take two bacon slices per rolled chicken breast and gently wrap around each roll Tuck the ends beneath the chicken Place the seam side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet to keep them intact

Bake:

Bake at three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit for twenty five to thirty minutes or until the bacon is crisp and the chicken reaches one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit inside Let the rolls rest for five minutes before removing toothpicks and slicing

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Storage Tips

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep delicious for up to three days in the refrigerator Store in an airtight container and reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness Avoid microwaving which can make the bacon rubbery

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap cream cheese for Boursin or herbed goat cheese if you want a tangier filling No chives Just add more chopped green onion or skip them altogether For a milder flavor use turkey bacon instead of regular

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal My family also loves this chicken with mashed potatoes or on a bed of herby rice A drizzle of mustard or hot honey on top always takes it to the next level

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Cultural Context

Stuffed chicken breast recipes have their roots in European and American home cooking but the bacon wrapping adds a Southern flair This version is a modern comfort classic that brings the best of flavor and nostalgia together

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent the cheese filling from leaking?

Carefully seal the edges of the chicken before rolling and secure with toothpicks to keep the filling inside during baking.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the chicken with filling and bacon, then refrigerate until ready to bake, up to 24 hours in advance.

→ What herbs work best in the filling?

Fresh chives and parsley add bright flavor, but you can also use dill, basil, or thyme based on your preference.

→ Is there a way to keep the bacon crispy?

Bake the chicken on a rack or turn on the broiler for the last few minutes to help crisp up the bacon exterior.

→ Can this be made with other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Try adding cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda to give the filling your preferred flavor and texture.