Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken

Cowboy BBQ Bacon Cheddar Chicken brings together everything my family loves in a single skillet dinner—smoky, cheesy, saucy, and loaded with crispy bacon. It is the kind of hearty dish that impresses at a cookout or just on a weeknight when you crave big flavors but need easy steps. The combination of tangy barbecue and creamy cheese always draws everyone to the table, and if you serve this with a pile of roasted potatoes or buttery corn, there are never any leftovers.

The first time I served this, my husband could not believe it was homemade and not takeout. Now it is one of those easy crowd-pleasers I turn to when company comes or if the kids want something special.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: This cut cooks quickly and holds up to all the toppings. Look for even sizes for the most uniform baking
• Smoked paprika: Gives an irresistible campfire depth. Choose a well-sealed tin so the spice stays fresh
• Sliced bacon: Provides crunch and salty richness. Center-cut has less fat and gets crispier
• Cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy tang. Choose sharp cheddar for maximum flavor and grate it fresh if you can
• Barbecue sauce: Adds sweet tang with every bite. A smoky variety works best for that cowboy taste
• Green onions: Offer fresh bite and color. Use firm bright stalks
• Garlic and onion powder: These build savory flavor layers in a pinch

Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Pat chicken breasts dry and rub all over with olive oil. Then sprinkle both sides generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper, pressing the seasonings in for even coverage

Make the Bacon:

In a large skillet set over medium heat, lay out the bacon slices in a single layer. Cook until deeply golden and crispy on both sides, about five to seven minutes. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled

Sear the Chicken:

Using the same skillet or an ovenproof one, heat over medium-high until hot. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook four to five minutes per side, letting a golden crust form without moving them too much

Add the Sauce and Cheese:

Reduce heat to medium. Pour barbecue sauce evenly over each chicken piece. Top with a thick layer of shredded cheddar cheese

Top with Bacon:

Sprinkle crumbled bacon across the melty cheese. This combination will crisp and caramelize further in the oven

Bake to Finish:

Transfer the whole skillet to a preheated 400 degree oven. Bake ten to twelve minutes until the cheese is bubbling and chicken hits an internal temperature of 165

Finish and Garnish:

Remove from the oven. Let chicken rest in the skillet for a few minutes before topping with the chopped green onion and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want extra spice

My favorite part has always been the cheese bubbling up around the smoky bacon because it reminds me of summer cookouts at my grandparents’ house. The way the flavors come together always brings back good memories and a little comfort.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Save any extra chicken in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors intensify overnight and make for incredible lunch sandwiches. Chop up the leftovers and layer them over a baked potato or toss onto a salad for something different. If you want to prep ahead, slice the bacon and cheese then store individually for faster assembly the next time

Easy Ingredient Swaps

Swap in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a creamy kick. Try turkey bacon to lighten things up a bit. Substitute boneless thighs for even juicier results. If you run out of fresh green onions, a sprinkle of chives or parsley works in a pinch

Perfect Ways to Serve This

Slice the chicken and serve over mashed potatoes so all those barbecue juices soak in. Add a side of crunchy coleslaw for refreshing contrast. Tuck into toasted buns for a deluxe sandwich experience

The Story Behind This Recipe

This meal always takes me back to relaxed backyard evenings with friends where food and stories go hand in hand. We first made our version for a neighbor’s barbecue and it instantly became a family favorite. It is fantastic because everyone from picky eaters to barbecue fans finds something to love

Adapting for Every Season

In summer, top the finished chicken with fresh corn and diced tomatoes. In winter, a sprinkle of extra cheese makes it even more comforting. For grilling season, finish the chicken over the grill instead of oven for more smoky depth

This one pan meal is always worth repeating and there is something about the familiar layers of flavor that make everyone feel at home. Even after making it dozens of times I still get a little excited to dig in

Recipe Q&A

→ How do I keep the chicken moist?

Lightly coating the chicken with olive oil and searing it before baking helps lock in moisture and flavor.

→ Can I use pre-cooked bacon?

Yes, pre-cooked bacon can be used for convenience, just crumble and use as directed before baking.

→ Is it possible to use another cheese?

Shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese melt well and add extra flavor to the dish.

→ What side dishes pair well?

Try serving with roasted potatoes, coleslaw, or baked beans for a classic barbecue meal.

→ Can I make this spicy?

Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños before baking for extra heat and kick.