Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that brings together smoky barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar over tender, juicy chicken breasts. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option for busy households or anyone craving a hearty meal without spending much time in the kitchen.
The chicken bakes in a rich layer of barbecue sauce that keeps it moist, while the bacon adds a satisfying crunch and smoky depth. Once topped with cheddar, the melted cheese creates a creamy, gooey finish that ties everything together. Serve it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal that feels both simple and indulgent.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- Seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 6 slices cooked bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts into a baking dish.
- Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the barbecue sauce over the chicken, coating each piece well.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly across the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and top each chicken breast with shredded cheddar. Return to the oven for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest briefly, then garnish with parsley or green onions if desired. Serve warm.
Recipe Info
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Dinner / Main Course
Tips & Variations
- Boneless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier, richer result.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor.
- Use a sugar-free barbecue sauce for a lower-carb option.
- Add red pepper flakes or a spicy BBQ sauce for heat.
- Make it a full meal by serving it with salad, coleslaw, roasted veggies, or potatoes.
- Leftovers keep well and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
Approximate Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: ~430–450
- Protein: ~30–35 g
- Carbs: ~8–12 g (varies by BBQ sauce)
- Fat: ~20–25 g
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts into a baking dish.
- Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the barbecue sauce over the chicken, coating each piece well.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly across the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and top each chicken breast with shredded cheddar. Return to the oven for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest briefly, then garnish with parsley or green onions if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Protein: ~30–35 g
- Carbs: ~8–12 g (varies by BBQ sauce)
- Fat: ~20–25 g
FAQs
Can I assemble this ahead of time?
Yes—season the chicken and add the sauce and bacon. Add cheese only when ready to bake.
Can I make it low-carb?
Yes, simply use a low-sugar or sugar-free barbecue sauce.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cheese alternative or leave out the cheese.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely—use a larger baking dish and keep the cooking time similar, checking doneness.
Why is my chicken dry?
Avoid overbaking. Remove the chicken as soon as it reaches 165°F (75°C).
