Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breast with Spinach
An indulgent and savory dish, perfect for any special occasion or a hearty weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained | 10 oz (284 g) package |
| Mayonnaise, keto-friendly | ½ cup |
| Feta cheese, shredded | ½ cup |
| Garlic cloves, chopped | 2 cloves |
| Skinless, boneless chicken breasts | 4 pieces |
| Bacon slices | 4 slices |
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Difficulty: Difficult
Serving Size: 4 servings
Allergen Information:
- Dairy: This recipe contains dairy from the feta cheese and mayonnaise, which may not be suitable for individuals with dairy allergies or those following a dairy-free diet.
- Gluten: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but it’s important to verify that the mayonnaise used is also free from gluten-containing ingredients.
- Pork: Bacon is included, so this recipe is not suitable for those following a halal or kosher diet, or for individuals who avoid pork products.
Dietary Preferences:
- Keto-friendly: This recipe is a great choice for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. It’s high in healthy fats and proteins, with only 3.7 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
- Low Carb: The combination of bacon, chicken, spinach, and feta makes this dish a great option for those following a low-carb lifestyle.
Instructions:
-
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it’s fully heated before placing the chicken in. -
Prepare the Spinach Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the thawed and drained spinach, mayonnaise, shredded feta cheese, and chopped garlic. Stir until all ingredients are well-mixed and smooth, then set the bowl aside. -
Butterfly the Chicken
Carefully cut the chicken breasts across the middle, creating a pocket, but avoid cutting all the way through. Leave about 1 inch uncut at the bottom, creating a “butterfly” effect. This technique ensures the chicken remains intact while creating space to stuff with the spinach mixture. -
Stuff the Chicken Breasts
Open each chicken breast like a book and evenly divide the spinach mixture. Spoon the mixture into the center of each breast, ensuring it’s well-distributed. -
Wrap the Chicken
Take one slice of bacon and wrap it around each chicken breast, securing it with a toothpick to keep the bacon in place during cooking. The bacon adds flavor and helps keep the chicken moist. -
Bake the Chicken
Arrange the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts in a baking dish. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the chicken is cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the bacon is crispy, and the chicken juices run clear. -
Serve
Carefully remove the toothpicks and the aluminum foil. Serve the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts warm, and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 626 kcal |
| Fat | 41.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 3.7 g |
| Protein | 61.0 g |
Tips and Advice:
- Add Vegetables: For a more rounded meal, serve this bacon-wrapped chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Spices and Herbs: Feel free to season the spinach mixture with some freshly cracked black pepper, oregano, or basil to enhance the flavors.
- Bacon Alternatives: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon or prosciutto can be substituted for regular bacon.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results, ensuring the chicken is heated through without losing moisture.
Conclusion:
Bacon-wrapped chicken breasts with spinach are a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and crispy flavors. The combination of rich feta, savory bacon, and nutrient-packed spinach makes this dish both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s keto-friendly, low-carb, and packed with protein, making it both a delicious and nutritious option.
