Cream Cheese & Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Cooking Notes
5. Variations
6. Keto and Low-Carb Versions
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
8. Conclusion

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful dinner that’s as delicious as it is unique, this Cream Cheese & Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken recipe is sure to impress! Tender chicken breasts are stuffed with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, crispy bacon, and seasonings, then coated in crushed Doritos for a satisfying crunch. This combination of savory, creamy, and crunchy textures makes for a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for family dinners, game days, or casual gatherings.

Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and quick prep time, you’ll have a decadent meal that’s sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Cream Cheese & Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup Doritos, crushed (any flavor, but Nacho Cheese is a classic)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. The pocket should be large enough to hold the cream cheese and bacon filling.
3. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until well combined.
4. Stuff the Chicken: Carefully stuff each chicken breast with the cream cheese and bacon mixture. Use toothpicks to secure the edges of the chicken breast if necessary.
5. Coat with Doritos: Crush the Doritos into fine crumbs and place them in a shallow dish. Dredge each stuffed chicken breast into the Dorito crumbs, pressing gently to coat the chicken evenly.
6. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the stuffed and coated chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, just until the Doritos are crispy and golden brown.
7. Bake the Chicken: Transfer the chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Serve: Remove the toothpicks and serve the chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. These stuffed chicken breasts pair wonderfully with a side of vegetables, a simple salad, or mashed potatoes.

Cooking Notes

• Chicken: Be sure to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe to keep it simple and easy. If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as well.
• Doritos: Any flavor of Doritos can be used, but the classic Nacho Cheese flavor pairs particularly well with the creamy bacon filling. For an extra kick, try using Cool Ranch or Spicy Nacho Doritos.
• Stuffing: Be careful not to overstuff the chicken breasts, as this can cause them to burst open while cooking. You can also use toothpicks to secure the chicken and keep the filling inside.

Variations

• Buffalo Chicken Version: For a spicy twist, add a tablespoon of buffalo sauce to the cream cheese and bacon mixture. You can also top the chicken with additional buffalo sauce before baking.
• Mushroom and Swiss Stuffing: Substitute the cheddar cheese for Swiss cheese and add sautéed mushrooms to the filling for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Lovers: Add a few slices of mozzarella cheese along with the cream cheese and cheddar for an extra cheesy filling.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

To make this recipe keto-friendly or low-carb, here are some simple substitutions:

• Doritos Substitute: Replace the Doritos with crushed pork rinds for a low-carb, crunchy coating.
• Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese and shredded cheese to stay within keto guidelines.
• Vegetables: Add spinach or zucchini to the cream cheese mixture for added fiber and nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken breasts by stuffing them with the cream cheese and bacon filling and coating them in the Doritos crumbs up to a day ahead. Store the stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I Use Other Chips Instead of Doritos?

Yes, if you don’t have Doritos, you can use any type of flavored chips, such as tortilla chips or even Cheetos, for a unique twist.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Can I Freeze This Dish?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed and coated chicken breasts before baking. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and cook as directed.

This Cream Cheese & Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken is the ultimate flavor-packed dinner! The combination of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and crunchy Doritos makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or something special to serve at a gathering, this stuffed chicken is sure to impress.

Give it a try and enjoy the delicious blend of flavors and textures in every bite. It’s an unforgettable dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

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