Keto Bacon Wrapped Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella
Introduction
Keto Bacon Wrapped Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella is a mouth-watering dish that brings together the savory taste of bacon, the rich flavor of chicken, and the creamy delight of mozzarella cheese. This recipe is perfect for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb diet, providing a satisfying and nutritious meal that is both easy to prepare and delicious to eat. The combination of these ingredients creates a harmony of flavors that will leave you wanting more, making it an excellent option for dinner parties, family meals, or even meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of bacon
- 4 ounces of mozzarella cheese (cut into sticks or shredded)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts
- Using a sharp knife, make a horizontal slit along the side of each chicken breast to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
3. Season the Chicken
- Season both the inside and outside of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
4. Stuff the Chicken
- Insert the mozzarella cheese sticks or shredded mozzarella into the pocket of each chicken breast.
5. Wrap with Bacon
- Wrap each chicken breast with two slices of bacon, making sure the ends of the bacon are tucked under the chicken to secure them.
6. Sear the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the bacon is crispy and browned.
7. Bake the Chicken
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let Rest and Serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 30g
Benefits of Keto Bacon Wrapped Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella
1. High in Protein
This dish provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and overall health, especially on a ketogenic diet.
2. Low in Carbs
With only 2 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this recipe fits perfectly within the macronutrient requirements of a keto diet.
3. Rich in Healthy Fats
The bacon and mozzarella cheese contribute healthy fats that are necessary for ketosis, helping to keep you full and satisfied.
4. Easy to Prepare
Despite its gourmet appearance, this dish is straightforward to prepare, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
5. Versatile
This recipe can be paired with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, cauliflower mash, or a fresh green salad, making it a versatile addition to your meal plan.
Tips for Perfect Keto Bacon Wrapped Chicken
1. Choose Quality Ingredients
Using high-quality bacon and mozzarella will enhance the flavor of the dish. Opt for organic or free-range chicken breasts if possible.
2. Don’t Overstuff the Chicken
Ensure that the chicken breasts are not overstuffed with cheese, as this can cause the cheese to ooze out during cooking.
3. Secure the Bacon
Make sure the bacon is securely wrapped around the chicken to prevent it from unraveling during cooking. Toothpicks can be used to secure the bacon if necessary.
4. Use a Meat Thermometer
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the Chicken Rest
Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
Conclusion
Keto Bacon Wrapped Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella is a delicious and nutritious dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it an ideal choice for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. Easy to prepare and versatile in pairing with side dishes, this recipe offers both convenience and gourmet appeal. Whether you are cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress and delight with its mouth-watering combination of bacon, chicken, and mozzarella.