Step-by-step instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chive and onion cream cheese with the cream of bacon soup. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth.
Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and bacon bits, creating a rich filling. Set this mixture aside.
Horizontally slice each chicken breast, creating a pocket while being careful not to cut all the way through.
Spoon the creamy cheese mixture into the bottom halves of each chicken breast.
Fold the top halves of the chicken over the filling and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, beat the egg well and brush it over the tops of the chicken breasts.
Sprinkle the crushed Doritos on top, pressing them down gently to make them stick.
Bake for approximately 33 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken is incredibly versatile in terms of serving options. For a fun presentation, cut each piece into thick slices to showcase the creamy interior and crisp topping. Pair it with a light side salad or roasted veggies to balance the richness of the dish. It also goes perfectly with fluffy rice or simple mashed potatoes, which soak up every delightful flavor.
Keeping leftovers fresh
In the unlikely event that you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to extend their life, you can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before baking for up to three months. Just make sure to separate each piece with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure to let the chicken rest after baking; it helps retain the juices.
- Consider using different flavored Doritos for added flair—Spicy Nacho or Cool Ranch could offer an exciting twist.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken, which would cut down on your baking time significantly.
Creative twists
Thinking of zhuzhing this recipe up? Here are a few variations to consider:
- For a zesty kick, add some chopped green chiles or mixing in some salsa with the cream cheese filling.
- Swap out mozzarella for pepper jack cheese for a more intense flavor profile.
- For a low-carb option, use thinly sliced zucchini instead of chicken breasts and stuff them the same way!
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The total time, including prep and baking, is about an hour.
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese would work well as alternatives.
Is it safe to reheat the chicken?
Yes, you can reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave until it’s heated through. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
So, the next time you’re in need of a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s as fun to prepare as it is to eat, give this Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
