Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Chicken

Ingredients

• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Paprika (1 teaspoon)
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
• Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded)
• Bacon (8 slices)
• Chicken breasts (4 boneless, skinless)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Using a sharp knife, make a slit in each chicken breast to create a pocket for stuffing.
3. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with 2 slices of bacon and a quarter cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Secure the openings with toothpicks to hold the stuffing in place.
6. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until browned.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove the toothpicks before serving.
10. Serve the bacon and cheese stuffed chicken with your favorite side dishes.