Cracker Barrel Cheesy Bacon Homestyle Chicken Recipe

This Cracker Barrel-style cheesy bacon homestyle chicken is what homecooked meals should be all about!

(Did someone say “bacon?!”).

I cook the bacon first until it’s crispy, then use some of the drippings to sear the chicken for extra richness.

A mix of Colby and Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully over the top, giving it that signature Cracker Barrel texture.

Letting the chicken rest for five minutes before serving keeps it juicy and helps the cheese settle just right.

I make this when I want a meal that feels hearty without a lot of fuss.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Cheesy Bacon Homestyle Chicken

Ingredients

• 6 boneless skinless Chicken Breasts
• 12 slices Bacon
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup Cream
• 1/2 tsp Cajun Seasoning
• 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/4 tsp Salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F.

This ensures the chicken cooks evenly.

Step 2:

Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and salt.

Make sure each piece is well-coated.

Step 3:

Wrap two slices of bacon around each chicken breast.

Place them in a greased baking dish.

Step 4:

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Check if the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 5:

While the chicken is baking, warm the cream over low heat in a saucepan.

Stir until it’s smooth and starts to thicken.

Step 6:

Remove the chicken from the oven.

Pour the cream sauce over the chicken, then sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.

Step 7:

Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.

Allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing the Right Chicken:

Try to use chicken breasts that are similar in size so they cook evenly.

This can help avoid undercooked sections.

Cheese Selection:

Use a sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor in the dish.

Mild cheddar will result in a less pronounced cheesy taste.

Cooking with Bacon:

Cook the bacon lightly before wrapping if you want extra crispiness.

Just be cautious not to overcook it in the oven.

Oven Temperature:

Make sure to preheat your oven fully before placing the chicken in.

This helps ensure even cooking and the perfect texture.

Sauce Tips:

Adjust the thickness of your cream sauce by adding a little more cream if needed.

Stir continuously to prevent it from curdling.

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Cheesy Bacon Homestyle Chicken Recipe

Classic Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are an excellent comfort food choice to serve alongside your chicken.

They balance the flavors of rich cheese and crispy bacon perfectly.

Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes complement the juicy chicken and add that soothing touch to your meal.

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus brings a fresh and slightly nutty flavor to the meal.

You will love how the charred notes of the asparagus enhance the dish.

It’s simple to prepare, and adding a touch of lemon will transform it into a more exciting side.

Cornbread Muffins

Cornbread muffins are ideal if you’re aiming to bring a Southern twist to your table.

They offer a bit of sweetness that works harmoniously with your Cheesy Bacon Homestyle Chicken.

Avocado Tomato Salad

Consider serving an avocado tomato salad for something light and refreshing.

The creaminess of the avocado pairs beautifully with the crisp, acidy tomatoes.

It adds a bright element to the dish while staying simple and easy to prepare.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Roasted Brussels sprouts provide a unique twist as they add an earthy flavor profile to your meal.

Drizzling a sweet balsamic glaze over them creates a lovely contrast with the savory chicken.

Variations and Substitutions

Alternative Cheese Choices

You might want to switch up the cheese in this recipe.

Feel free to substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack or a smoky Gouda for a twist!

These delicious options can give the dish a whole new character.

Different Types of Bacon

Traditional pork bacon can be changed to turkey bacon if needed.

It gives a slightly different taste but keeps the crunch we love.

Use what you like or have on hand.

Chicken Modifications

Try using boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts if you like dark meat.

They tend to remain juicier and can add depth to your dish.

The cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them.

Spice It Up

For a more robust flavor, consider adding more spices.

A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne can add a little heat.

This is a great way to personalize the dish to your tastes!

How to Store Leftover Cracker Barrel Cheesy Bacon Homestyle Chicken Recipe

Use Airtight Containers

To keep your cheesy bacon homestyle chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container.

This prevents the food from absorbing any odors and keeps it tasting great.

Proper sealing ensures the texture remains consistent without becoming dry or soggy.

Refrigeration Guidelines

Place the container in the refrigerator, and leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3 days!

Avoid letting it sit out for too long to maintain its freshness and taste.

This quick cooling can help retain the flavor of the chicken and sauce.

Freezing Instructions

If you need to store leftovers longer, freezing is a fantastic option.

Wrap portions individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

In the freezer, your dish can keep for up to 3 months, perfect for planning ahead.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken

One mistake to watch out for is overcooking the chicken until it’s dry and tough.

Keep an eye on the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C) when you’re cooking it.

Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve perfectly juicy chicken.

Skipping the Bacon Step

Never skip cooking the bacon separately until crispy before adding it to the dish.

This step is important because it ensures you get that desired crispy texture and flavor.

Cooking bacon in the same pan as the chicken can result in soggy bacon.

Forgetting to Use Enough Cheese

Using too little cheese can result in a dish that lacks that gooey texture everyone loves.

Be generous with the cheese on top to give it a rich, creamy finish.

This also helps create a beautiful crust when broiled.