A delightful chicken dish featuring creamy cheese and crispy bacon, perfect for a hearty dinner.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking from the start.
Flatten each chicken breast to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet.
Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap to prevent mess.
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Seasoning the chicken enhances its natural flavor.
Spread one ounce of herbed creamy cheese onto each chicken breast.
Use a spatula for an even spread.
Roll up each chicken breast tightly and wrap with a slice of smoked bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
Ensure the bacon covers the seam to keep the roll intact.
Place the chicken rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
Lining the dish with parchment paper can make cleanup easier.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the bacon is crispy.
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let the chicken rolls rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.