Cream Cheese & Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup crushed Doritos (any flavor you like, Nacho Cheese recommended)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally almost all the way through, creating a pocket. Do not cut all the way through. Gently open the chicken breast like a book.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
4. Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly into the pockets of each chicken breast. Close the chicken breasts and secure them with toothpicks if needed.
5. In a shallow dish, place the crushed Doritos. In another shallow dish, place the flour. In a third shallow dish, place the beaten eggs. In a fourth shallow dish, place the panko bread crumbs.
6. Dredge each stuffed chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's fully coated. Finally, coat thoroughly in the crushed Doritos, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Place the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
9. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before removing the toothpicks (if used) and serving. Serve immediately and enjoy!