Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken is all about hearty, smoky flavors wrapped up in one delicious dish. Imagine juicy chicken breasts topped with crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a tangy barbecue sauce that brings everything together perfectly. It’s a simple meal that feels like a cookout on your plate.
I love making this recipe because it’s so easy to put together, but it always feels special. The combination of crispy bacon and gooey cheddar cheese on top of tender chicken hits all the right notes. Adding that BBQ sauce brings a little sweetness and a little tang that makes every bite interesting. I always find myself craving leftovers the next day!
When I serve this dish, I like to pair it with some classic sides like baked beans or corn on the cob to keep the cowboy barbecue vibe going. It’s a great recipe for a weeknight dinner but also works well when you have friends over and want something satisfying without a lot of fuss. Trust me, this chicken will be a new favorite for anyone who loves bold flavors and a bit of comfort food.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless work best for even cooking and easy eating. You can swap for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful meat.
Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for a nice crispy texture. Turkey bacon works as a leaner alternative but may be less crispy.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, but you can use Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder taste. Pre-shredded cheese saves time but fresh-shredded melts better.
BBQ sauce: Pick your favorite barbecue sauce, whether sweet, smoky, or spicy. If you want to lighten it up, try a low-sugar or vinegar-based sauce.
How Do You Get Crispy Bacon and Juicy Chicken in One Skillet?
Cooking bacon and chicken in the same skillet adds flavor but requires care to balance textures. Here’s my approach:
- Cook bacon first on medium heat until crispy; remove and drain on paper towels. Leave some bacon fat for the chicken—it adds great flavor.
- Increase heat slightly and sear the chicken breasts in the bacon fat for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. This locks in juices and builds a flavorful crust.
- Don’t crowd the pan so chicken browns nicely instead of steaming.
- After searing, add toppings and finish cooking in the oven to make sure chicken is fully cooked and cheese melts without burning.
These steps ensure crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and perfect melt on the cheese every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet – I recommend a cast-iron skillet because it heats evenly and can go straight from stove to oven, making cooking and cleanup easier.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check that chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) to cook it safely and stay juicy.
- Spatula – for flipping the chicken and handling the bacon and cheese toppings neatly.
- Paper towels – handy for draining cooked bacon and keeping everything tidy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken with pork chops or turkey breasts for a different protein option that still pairs well with BBQ and bacon.
- Try adding sliced jalapeños or BBQ spices like cumin or chili powder to spice up the flavors.
- Spread a layer of coleslaw or sliced pickles on top for a fresh crunch that balances richness.
- Sprinkle chopped scallions or cilantro over the finished dish for a burst of fresh flavor and color.
Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, 10 minutes to cook bacon and sear the chicken, then an additional 15-20 minutes baking in the oven. In total, plan for around 35-40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready and Season the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then rub them all over with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly onto the chicken breasts, coating both sides well.
2. Cook the Bacon and Sear the Chicken:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon slices until they’re crispy, then transfer them to paper towels to drain. Leave a little bacon fat in the skillet—it will add amazing flavor to the chicken. Next, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.
3. Add Toppings and Bake:
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of barbecue sauce over each chicken breast. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top, then crumble the cooked bacon over the cheese. Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Finish and Serve:
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve the chicken warm with your favorite sides and extra barbecue sauce if you’d like.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps the seasoning stick better.
Can I Substitute the Bacon With Something Healthier?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a lighter option, or you can skip the bacon altogether and add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the seasoning for that BBQ flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can season and sear the chicken beforehand, then refrigerate it. When ready to eat, add the toppings and bake in the oven until fully cooked and the cheese is melted.