why make this recipe
Garlic Mozzarella-Stuffed Grilled Chicken with Bacon is a delicious meal that combines juicy chicken with gooey mozzarella and savory garlic. The added bacon gives it a smoky flavor that everyone loves. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a special occasion. It’s easy to make and will impress your guests with its tasty flavors and beautiful presentation.
how to make Garlic Mozzarella-Stuffed Grilled Chicken with Bacon
Ingredients :
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits
- Optional: toothpicks to secure
Directions :
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing them horizontally but not all the way through. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and Italian seasoning.
- Stuff each breast with mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of minced garlic. If needed, secure them with toothpicks.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a pan. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned.
- Transfer the chicken to the grill or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes until it is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
- Top the chicken with bacon bits and drizzle the garlic butter from the pan over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
how to serve Garlic Mozzarella-Stuffed Grilled Chicken with Bacon
This dish is best served hot. You can place it on a platter and garnish it with extra parsley for a nice touch. Pair it with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or your favorite side dish. A glass of white wine also complements this meal beautifully.
how to store Garlic Mozzarella-Stuffed Grilled Chicken with Bacon
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool down, then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
tips to make Garlic Mozzarella-Stuffed Grilled Chicken with Bacon
- Make sure not to overstuff the chicken, as it may burst while cooking.
- You can use toothpicks to secure the chicken if you prefer less mess.
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic, and seasoning for a couple of hours before cooking.
variation
You can add different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick. If you want a healthier option, you could also use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
FAQs
1. Can I bake this chicken instead of grilling it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and stuff it, then store it in the fridge. Cook it later when you’re ready to serve.
3. What can I serve with this chicken?
This chicken goes well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple garden salad. Enjoy it with your favorite dip or sauce for added flavor.
Garlic Mozzarella-Stuffed Grilled Chicken with Bacon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped For garnish
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits
- Optional: toothpicks to secure
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing them horizontally but not all the way through. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and Italian seasoning.
- Stuff each breast with mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of minced garlic. If needed, secure them with toothpicks.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil and butter in a pan. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned.
- Transfer the chicken to the grill or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes until it is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
- Top the chicken with bacon bits and drizzle the garlic butter from the pan over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.