Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken is a fun and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, savory filling, all coated in crunchy Doritos. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a weekend gathering, providing a delightful twist on traditional stuffed chicken.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups crushed Doritos nacho cheese flavor
2 tbsp olive oil for brushing

Directions

Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Stuff the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each chicken breast. Fold the chicken over the filling and secure it with toothpicks if needed.
Coat the Chicken
Place the crushed Doritos in a shallow dish. Brush the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts with olive oil. Press the chicken into the crushed Doritos, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
Bake and Serve
Place the coated chicken breasts in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the Doritos coating is golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Substitute the bacon with cooked sausage or turkey bacon for a different flavor.
Experiment with different cheese types, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a spicier kick.
Add chopped jalapeños or green onions to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
Use different flavored Doritos, such as cool ranch or spicy nacho, for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the coating may lose some of its crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before stuffing and cooking.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken and coat it with Doritos, then refrigerate until ready to bake.
Is it possible to grill this chicken instead?
Yes, you can grill the stuffed chicken over medium heat, but be careful to ensure the filling is cooked through.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses.
What if I don’t have toothpicks?
You can use kitchen twine to tie the chicken, or simply press the edges to seal.
Are Doritos gluten-free?
Most varieties of Doritos are gluten-free, but always check the packaging to be sure.
Can I bake the chicken without the Doritos?
Yes, you can bake the stuffed chicken without the Doritos for a lighter option.
What’s the nutritional information for this recipe?
Nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients, but it is generally high in protein and rich in flavor.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken is a delicious and playful dish that is sure to impress at any dinner table. With its crispy coating and savory filling, it combines familiar flavors in a unique way. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is both comforting and satisfying—an excellent addition to your recipe repertoire!