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Savory Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Chicken Breasts

bacon-wrapped jalapeño chicken breasts - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring boneless chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy jalapeño and cheddar cheese filling, wrapped in crispy bacon. Perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties, balancing spicy, creamy, and smoky flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces / 170g each)
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
  • 8 ounces (226g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (50g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.
  3. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast about ¾ inch deep without slicing all the way through.
  4. Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly into each pocket without overstuffing.
  5. Wrap each stuffed chicken breast with two slices of bacon, slightly overlapping. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
  6. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place bacon-wrapped chicken breasts seam side down first and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until bacon is golden and starting to crisp.
  7. Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish or sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.

Notes

For extra crisp bacon, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Wearing gloves while chopping jalapeños prevents eye irritation. If jalapeños are too spicy, remove seeds or substitute with milder peppers like poblano or Anaheim. Dairy-free and allergen-friendly substitutions include cashew-based cream cheese and turkey bacon.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon wrapped chicken, jalapeño chicken, stuffed chicken breasts, easy dinner, creamy chicken, spicy chicken, weeknight meal