chicken stuffed with philadelphia cheese and wrapped in bacon

Bacon Wrapped Philadelphia Stuffed Chicken: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Bacon-wrapped Philadelphia stuffed chicken is a popular dish that combines the savory flavors of bacon with the creamy texture of Philadelphia cream cheese and juicy chicken. This recipe is relatively easy to prepare, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It offers a delicious combination of flavors and textures that appeals to a wide range of palates.

What is Bacon Wrapped Philadelphia Stuffed Chicken?

This dish features boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are butterflied and filled with Philadelphia cream cheese, often seasoned with herbs and spices. The stuffed chicken is then tightly wrapped in bacon and baked or pan-fried until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. The cream cheese filling adds moisture and richness to the chicken, while the bacon provides a smoky and salty flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a basic list of ingredients for this recipe:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
• Bacon slices
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh herbs like chives or parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open it like a book.
3. In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and any fresh herbs you’re using.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the inside of each butterflied chicken breast.
5. Close the chicken breast and wrap it tightly with bacon slices, securing the bacon with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place the bacon-wrapped chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. The USDA recommends an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for cooked chicken.
8. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks before serving, if used.

Tips and Variations

• Add chopped vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the cream cheese filling for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, in combination with or instead of cream cheese.
• Marinate the chicken breasts before stuffing for enhanced flavor.
• Grill the bacon-wrapped chicken for a smoky flavor.
• For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the cream cheese from oozing out during cooking?

Make sure to tightly close the chicken breasts after stuffing them and secure them with toothpicks. Also, don’t overfill the chicken with cream cheese.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. However, it’s best to add the bacon just before cooking to prevent it from becoming soggy.

What should I serve with bacon-wrapped Philadelphia stuffed chicken?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a side salad.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is cooked through when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?

Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for pork bacon if you prefer. Keep in mind that turkey bacon may not get as crispy as pork bacon.

Summary

Bacon-wrapped Philadelphia stuffed chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious meal that is sure to impress. Experiment with different variations and seasonings to find your favorite version of this classic recipe.