Bacon, Honey, and Cheddar Stuffed Chicken: A Savory Delight

This Bacon, Honey, and Cheddar Stuffed Chicken dish is the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with a delightful mixture of crispy bacon, gooey cheddar cheese, and a hint of honey for a truly succulent meal. This recipe is easy to follow and results in a dish that will impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients
For the Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Marinade:
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix well.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

3. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

4. Prepare the Filling:
In a small bowl, combine crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and 2 tablespoons of honey.

5. Stuff the Chicken:
Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. Make a horizontal slit along the side of each chicken breast to create a pocket. Stuff each pocket with the bacon, cheddar, and honey mixture. Use toothpicks to secure the opening, if necessary.

6. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

7. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

8. Rest and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps to lock in the juices and flavors.

Enjoy your delightful Bacon, Honey, and Cheddar Stuffed Chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.