Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken, where tender chicken breasts are filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese and bacon, coated in crunchy Doritos crumbs, and baked to golden perfection. This recipe combines savory bacon, rich cream cheese, and the bold crunch of Doritos for a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress. Learn how to make this unique and flavorful chicken dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Prepare these ingredients to make Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken:
- For Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Filling:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- For Coating:
- 2 cups nacho cheese-flavored Doritos, crushed into fine crumbs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- For Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk
- For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken:
- Prepare Chicken Breasts: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. Season with salt and pepper inside and out.
- Make Filling: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, crumbled bacon, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Stuff Chicken: Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each chicken breast pocket, dividing evenly. Press the edges to seal.
- Coat Chicken: Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs and milk, and one with crushed Doritos. Dredge each stuffed chicken breast first in flour, then in egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with Doritos crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Cook Chicken: In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the coated chicken breasts on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot, garnished with extra bacon bits and chopped green onions if desired.
Cook’s Notes
- Chicken Thickness: Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your chicken breasts to ensure they cook evenly.
- Doritos Crunch: For a crispier coating, lightly spray the coated chicken breasts with cooking spray before baking.
Variations
Explore different ways to customize your Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken:
- Spicy Variation: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the Doritos crumbs for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheese blends such as cheddar, pepper jack, or provolone in the filling.
Keto Version
For a keto-friendly option, replace Doritos with crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with grated Parmesan cheese for a crunchy coating. Ensure all other ingredients are keto-compliant, such as using full-fat cream cheese and mozzarella.
Low Carb Version
To reduce carbs, use crushed pork rinds or almond flour for the coating and omit flour entirely. Use a low-carb cheese blend and ensure bacon is free of added sugars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use different flavors of Doritos for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use any flavor of Doritos you prefer to customize the taste of the chicken coating.
Q: How do I store leftover Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Q: Can I freeze Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken before baking? A: Yes, you can freeze the stuffed and coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Q: What can I serve with Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken? A: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, a crisp salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken offers a delightful combination of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and crunchy Doritos, creating a unique and flavorful chicken dish that’s both fun to make and delicious to eat. Whether you’re cooking for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process of preparing and savoring this indulgent dish, and watch it disappear from plates in no time.
