Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that combines the irresistible crunch of almond crust with the smoky richness of cheddar and the savory goodness of bacon! Our Sheet Pan Almond Crusted Chicken Stuffed Smoked Cheddar Bacon is not just a meal; it's an experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. With just 50 minutes from prep to plate, this American classic is perfect for busy weeknights or a special gathering. Dive into this recipe that promises juicy chicken enveloped in a crispy coating, and discover the secret to making your dinner the star of the show!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 cup smoked cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better.
- In a shallow bowl, mix almond flour with salt and pepper, creating a seasoned coating mixture.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
- Crumble the pre-cooked bacon into small pieces and mix with the shredded smoked cheddar cheese in a small bowl.
- Cut a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through, creating a space for stuffing.
- Stuff each chicken breast pocket with the bacon and smoked cheddar mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Seal the chicken breast pockets by pressing the edges together to prevent cheese from leaking during cooking.
- Dip each stuffed chicken breast first into beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the seasoned almond flour mixture.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared sheet pan, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
- Drizzle olive oil lightly over the chicken breasts to help achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption and optimal juiciness.
- Customize Your Stuffing: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add vegetables like spinach or roasted red peppers to the stuffing for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Crispy Coating: For an extra crispy exterior, consider broiling the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but watch it closely to prevent burning.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 160mg
