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Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

Highlight: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

This dish features juicy chicken breasts seared to golden perfection, then baked under a blanket of smoky barbecue sauce. Crispy thick-cut bacon adds a satisfying crunch, while sharp cheddar cheese melts to create a rich, savory finish. The combination of textures and the balance of smoky, salty, and tangy flavors make every bite a delight. It's a straightforward method that allows the ingredients to shine—a perfect meal for those seeking a comforting yet bold dish, ready in under an hour.

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Crafted By Dina
Updated on Tue, 09 Dec 2025 20:23:14 GMT
A plate of bacon chicken with cheese and barbecue sauce. Save
A plate of bacon chicken with cheese and barbecue sauce. | myhomemademeal.com

This Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken brings together juicy chicken breasts, smoky barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese into a satisfying dinner that hits all the right notes. It’s a dish that perfectly balances savory and tangy flavors with a variety of textures that keep every bite interesting and comforting.

I first made this recipe on a weekend when I craved something hearty but not complicated. Since then it’s become a go-to for quick family dinners that everyone enjoys requesting again and again.

Ingredients

  • Chicken breasts with no skin or bones: the main protein that stays juicy when cooked right
  • Smoky BBQ sauce: this adds a tangy sweetness and depth of flavor, so pick a brand you love or make your own
  • Thick-cut bacon: provides a crispy, savory topping that contrasts wonderfully with tender chicken
  • Sharp cheddar cheese shredded fresh: melts beautifully and brings a rich creaminess
  • Olive oil: for searing the chicken to lock in juices
  • Salt and pepper: essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Chicken:
Cook chicken breasts in olive oil over medium-high heat for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown. This step builds a flavorful crust and seals the juices inside so the meat stays tender.
Prepare for Baking:
Place the seared chicken in a baking dish. Brush each piece generously with your favorite smoky BBQ sauce to coat them with that classic tang and sweetness.
Add Bacon and Cheese:
Top each chicken breast with crispy bacon slices and then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This layering creates a perfect combination of crispy and melty textures.
Bake Until Done:
Put the dish in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the cheese should be bubbly and golden.
Rest and Serve:
Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows juices to redistribute, keeping every bite moist and flavorful.
A plate of chicken with bacon and cheese. Save
A plate of chicken with bacon and cheese. | myhomemademeal.com

My favorite part always ends up being the crispy bacon topping since it adds a smoky crunch that complements the tender chicken perfectly. One memorable time at a family cookout everyone went back for seconds and even thirds, proving how reliably delicious this combo is.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use a moderate oven or air fryer to keep the bacon crisp and the chicken juicy rather than microwaving which can make it rubbery.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want a lighter version swap out regular bacon for turkey bacon and use reduced-fat cheddar cheese to cut down on calories without sacrificing much flavor. Chicken thighs could also be used instead of breasts for a more flavorful and slightly juicier option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty chicken alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the cheese and bacon. Roasted potatoes or a simple coleslaw also pair really well to complete the meal.

Pro Tips

Make sure to sear the chicken properly before baking or you lose the juicy texture. Use thick-cut bacon because it holds up better during baking and tastes better than thin slices. Letting the chicken rest after baking ensures it is moist and tender throughout.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of BBQ sauce works best with this dish?

A smoky, slightly sweet BBQ sauce complements the bacon and cheddar flavors best, adding depth without overpowering the chicken.

→ Can I use turkey bacon as a substitute?

Yes, turkey bacon can be used for a leaner option, though it will be less crispy and have a milder flavor than traditional thick-cut bacon.

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy during baking?

Searing the chicken breasts before baking locks in moisture, while resting the cooked chicken allows juices to redistribute for tender results.

→ What cheese melts best for this dish?

Sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds a bold, creamy layer that enhances the smoky and savory toppings.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the chicken with sauce, bacon, and cheese, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking for convenience.

→ Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, using gluten-free BBQ sauce ensures the dish remains free from gluten while delivering full flavor.

Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar

Tender chicken breasts glazed with smoky BBQ, topped with crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Duration
30 minutes
Overall Time
45 minutes
Crafted By: Dina

Recipe Type: Main Dishes

Preparation Complexity: Beginner-Friendly

Regional Cuisine: American

Servings Output: 4 Serving Size (4 servings)

Dietary Choices: Lower-Carb Choice, Gluten-Free Alternative

Everything You’ll Need

→ Chicken

01 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

→ Sauce

02 1 cup smoky barbecue sauce

→ Toppings

03 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy
04 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

→ Seasoning

05 1 teaspoon salt
06 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Cooking Fat

07 2 tablespoons olive oil

Steps to Cook

Step 01

Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat.

Step 02

Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Step 03

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown.

Step 04

Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish and brush each generously with barbecue sauce.

Step 05

Layer crispy bacon slices and shredded cheddar cheese over each chicken breast.

Step 06

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and golden.

Step 07

Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes prior to serving.

Extra Suggestions

  1. Can be prepared ahead by assembling chicken and toppings, refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.
  2. Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container and consumed within 3 days.
  3. For a lighter variation, substitute turkey bacon and reduced-fat cheddar cheese.

Must-Have Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Meat thermometer

Allergy Information

Always check ingredient details for potential allergens. Consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy from cheddar cheese

Nutritional Highlights (per portion)

Nutritional information is shared for guidance and isn't meant to replace expert medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 450
  • Fat Breakdown: 25 grams
  • Carbohydrate Breakdown: 10 grams
  • Protein Count: 40 grams