Introduction:
This Cheesy Baked Garlic Chicken with Bacon is a decadent and satisfying meal perfect for cheese lovers. Juicy, tender chicken thighs are smothered in a rich garlic sauce, and topped with melted cheese and crispy bacon. This dish is loaded with flavor and makes a wonderful main course that pairs well with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Prepare this cheesy garlic chicken for a comforting, indulgent meal everyone will love!
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or boneless if preferred)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup crispy bacon bits (or 4 strips of cooked, crumbled bacon)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season and Sear the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear on each side until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine and Bake: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, coating them with the creamy garlic sauce. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and bacon bits on top of each chicken thigh.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for garnish and serve hot.
Enjoy this cheesy, garlicky, and savory chicken dish with your favorite sides!