Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Chicken Breast (or chicken tenderloin for extra juiciness)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 1/4 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 8 slices Cooked Bacon (crumbled)
- 1/4 cup Chives (finely chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking pan with the chicken breasts (or chicken tenderloin) and season with salt and pepper on both sides. Tenderloin works best as it doesn’t dry out during cooking, keeping the dish juicy and flavorful.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and all the ingredients are well-blended.
- Add Bacon and Chives:
- Crumble the cooked bacon and chop the chives finely. Add both to the cheese mixture and stir until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Top the Chicken:
- Spread the creamy, cheesy bacon mixture generously over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring an even layer covers the meat.
- Bake:
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden around the edges.
- Serve:
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with a side of vegetables, a salad, or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal!
Q&A
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and might give the dish a richer flavor. However, cooking time might vary slightly, so ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
Q: What can I substitute for cream cheese if I don’t have any?
A: You can substitute the cream cheese with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even mascarpone for a slightly different taste. The texture might be a bit different, but it will still work.
Q: How can I make this recipe lower in fat?
A: To reduce the fat content, you can use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese and mayo. You can also opt for leaner bacon or skip the bacon altogether if you’re looking for a healthier option.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare this dish a day ahead. Simply assemble it, cover it with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed due to the cold start.
Q: What’s the best side dish to serve with Billion Dollar Chicken?
A: This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus. You could also serve it with mashed potatoes, a crisp salad, or a side of garlic bread.
Benefits:
- High in Protein: The chicken breasts (or tenderloin) provide a lean source of protein, essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall health.
- Rich in Calcium: The mozzarella and cheddar cheeses provide a significant amount of calcium, promoting strong bones and dental health.
- Healthy Fats: The use of mayonnaise and cream cheese, especially if you choose lighter versions, offers a balance of fats that can support heart health when consumed in moderation.
- Bacon Boosts Flavor: While bacon is a source of saturated fats, it adds a smoky, savory flavor to the dish. In moderation, it can enhance the overall meal experience and bring in essential vitamins like B12 and selenium.
- Customizable: You can tweak this recipe to fit various dietary needs (low-carb, keto, gluten-free) by choosing specific ingredients such as low-carb mayo, using almond flour in place of breadcrumbs (if needed), or eliminating dairy if you’re lactose intolerant.
This Billion Dollar Chicken is a delicious, creamy, and comforting meal that’s rich in flavor and sure to impress anyone at the dinner table!