Pepper Jack Stuffed Chicken Breast Wrapped in Bacon (Carnivore Style)
pepper jack stuffed chicken breast wrapped in bacon is the ultimate carnivore comfort food. Each bite delivers a mouthwatering combination of smoky bacon, spicy melted cheese, and tender, juicy chicken. The seasonings perfectly complement the savory flavors, while the cheese provides a creamy kick that pairs beautifully with the crispness of the bacon. Whether served as a main dish or a decadent protein-packed snack, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. It’s simple enough for a weekday meal but elegant enough for a dinner party.
Ingredients:
- 4 large chicken breasts
- 8 slices of pepper jack cheese (or about 4 oz shredded)
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Use a sharp knife to create a pocket in the thickest part of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will hold the cheese stuffing. - Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning mix generously over both sides of the chicken breasts. - Stuff the Chicken:
Insert 1-2 slices of pepper jack cheese into each pocket. Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed within the chicken to avoid spillage while cooking. Secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine. - Wrap with Bacon:
Lay two slices of bacon side by side for each chicken breast. Wrap the bacon tightly around the chicken, ensuring it overlaps slightly to seal in the flavor and hold the cheese. Tuck the ends of the bacon underneath or secure them with additional toothpicks if needed. - Sear for Crispness:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the wrapped chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes per side until the bacon is lightly browned but not fully cooked. This step ensures the bacon becomes crispy later. - Bake to Perfection:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven (or use a baking dish if the skillet isn’t oven-safe). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the bacon is crisp. - Rest and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist. Remove toothpicks or twine before serving. -
Tips:
- For added flavor, brush the bacon with a little melted butter or sprinkle with smoked paprika before baking.
- Pair with a creamy ranch or blue cheese dip for an extra indulgent experience.
Enjoy your carnivore-friendly masterpiece!
