Million Dollar Chicken is a comforting and indulgent dish that turns a simple chicken breast into a decadent meal. Topped with a creamy blend of cheeses, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions, this dish delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s both easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature for baking the chicken evenly.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper. For additional flavor, you can use other spices or herbs, like garlic powder or paprika, to season the chicken.
- Mix the Topping:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded Colby Jack cheese, and mayonnaise. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated and smooth. This mixture will create a creamy and flavorful topping for the chicken.
- Fold in the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions. These ingredients add texture and a burst of flavor, complementing the richness of the cheese mixture.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. A lightly greased or non-stick baking dish works well to prevent sticking.
- Spread the cheese and bacon mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Ensure that the topping covers the chicken entirely to lock in moisture and flavor during baking.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken breasts. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the topping is bubbly and golden brown. If you prefer a crispier topping, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once the chicken is baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and juicy. Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired before serving.
Tips for Perfect Million Dollar Chicken:
- Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth and creamy consistency in the topping.
- Bacon: For the best texture and flavor, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Crumbled bacon adds a savory crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy topping.
- Cheese Variations: While Colby Jack cheese works well, you can experiment with other cheeses like Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even Gruyère for different flavor profiles.
- Additional Ingredients: Consider adding extras such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced tomatoes to the cheese mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Side Dishes: Million Dollar Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or over a bed of rice or pasta to complete the meal.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the chicken with the cheese mixture ahead of time. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow the dish to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, and adjust the baking time as needed.
Million Dollar Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and tender chicken. It’s a fantastic way to turn ordinary chicken breasts into a special meal that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Enjoy this rich and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table
