Description
This Cheesy Smothered Chicken with Bacon is a comforting and flavorful baked dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in creamy Alfredo sauce, seasoned with dry ranch dressing, and topped with melted provolone cheese and crispy bacon. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner, it’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 thinly sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts (or two chicken breasts cut in half lengthwise to make 4 thin chicken breasts)
- 1 tablespoon dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
Sauce and Toppings
- 1 (15 ounce) jar Alfredo sauce
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- Fresh parsley or chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 2-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and sprinkle both sides evenly with the dry ranch dressing seasoning mix, ensuring the chicken is well-coated for flavor.
- Coat with Alfredo Sauce: Pour the Alfredo sauce over the chicken breasts, then turn each piece to coat both sides thoroughly with the sauce, ensuring they are fully smothered.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Remove the foil, top each piece of chicken with a slice of provolone cheese and sprinkle the chopped bacon evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven uncovered, baking for an additional 5 to 8 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the dish before serving to add a fresh herbal note and color contrast.
Notes
- For best results, use thinly sliced chicken breasts or butterfly thicker breasts to ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute provolone cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack if desired.
- Cook bacon ahead and drain on paper towels to remove excess grease before chopping.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
- Serve over rice, pasta, or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
