Oven-baked chicken breast

Oven-baked chicken breast wrapped in bacon with cheese sauce - a delicious and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken with the intense flavors of bacon and the richness of cream and cheese sauce. Every bite will be a true explosion of flavors!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 4 pieces of chicken breast
- 12 slices of bacon
- 3 eggs
- 150 g grated cheese
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Salt, pepper, paprika (sweet or hot, depending on preference), and garlic powder, to taste
- Butter, for greasing the dish

A brief introduction
The recipe for oven-baked chicken breast wrapped in bacon is a popular choice in many kitchens. It combines the baking technique with simple yet flavorful ingredients. The bacon adds not only a rich taste but also a crispy texture, while the cream and cheese sauce provides creaminess and an extra layer of flavor. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Preparing the ingredients
1. Chicken breast: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken breast to achieve a juicy dish. Ensure it is well cleaned and cut evenly for even cooking.
2. Bacon: Opt for high-quality bacon, preferably from pork, but turkey options are also great for a lighter alternative. The bacon will add a salty and smoky flavor.
3. Eggs and sour cream: Use fresh eggs and good-quality sour cream to create a creamy and rich sauce. The cheese can be replaced with cheddar or gouda, depending on personal preferences.

Step by step
Step 1: Seasoning the chicken
- Start by seasoning each piece of chicken breast with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Use moderate amounts to avoid overpowering the natural flavor of the chicken. These spices not only enhance the taste but also help form a delicious crust during baking.

Step 2: Wrapping in bacon
- Take each piece of chicken breast and wrap it with 3 slices of bacon. Make sure the bacon is well secured so it doesn’t unravel during baking. You can use toothpicks to secure the bacon by inserting them into the chicken.

Step 3: Preparing the baking dish
- Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and add a hint of flavor. Place the wrapped chicken breasts in the dish, ensuring to leave a little space between them for even baking.

Step 4: Adding wine
- Drizzle the chicken breast with a little white wine, which will add flavor and help tenderize the meat during baking.

Step 5: Baking
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat) and place the dish with chicken in the oven. Let it bake for 50-60 minutes. Check if the bacon is crispy and the chicken is well cooked using a kitchen thermometer; the internal temperature of the chicken should be 75°C.

Step 6: Egg and cheese sauce
- After the chicken breast is cooked, beat the 3 eggs in a large bowl. Add the sour cream and grated cheese, mixing well until combined.
- Pour this mixture over the chicken and bacon in the baking dish.

Step 7: Finalizing the baking
- Place the dish back in the oven for another 15 minutes, until the sauce thickens and a golden crust forms on top.

Serving and suggestions
Oven-baked chicken breast wrapped in bacon can be served with a side of steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a contrast of textures and flavors. This dish pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken breast?
- It is recommended to use fresh chicken breast, but if you use frozen chicken, ensure it is completely thawed before seasoning.

2. What other spices can I use?
- You can experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano to add a different note. Even a splash of soy sauce can provide an interesting flavor.

3. How can I make the recipe easier?
- If you want an easier version, use skinless chicken breast and replace the bacon with a leaner option.

Nutritional benefits
This chicken breast recipe is rich in protein, providing about 30 g of protein per serving. The bacon, although high in fat, contributes to an intense flavor, while the cheese adds calcium and vitamins. The sour cream can be a source of healthy fats, but it is important to consume it in moderation.

Possible variations
For a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken breast with tofu or large mushrooms (such as portobello) that can be filled with the egg and cheese mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, to achieve a distinct flavor.

Now that you have all the necessary information, let’s get cooking! This recipe for oven-baked chicken breast wrapped in bacon is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to gather the family around the table. Enjoy!