Can I use a different type of cheese if I don't like Pepper Jack?

Yes, you can! If you don't like Pepper Jack, try Monterey Jack, Provolone, or Cheddar. These cheeses melt well and taste great with BBQ ranch.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking?

To stop cheese from leaking, butterfly the chicken and make a deep pocket. Stuff it gently and close the opening with toothpicks or twine. Then, wrap it in bacon tightly.

What are the best cooking methods for this stuffed chicken?

You can cook it in three ways: oven-bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, grill on a Traeger or gas grill, or slow cook in a crockpot. Each method gives a different taste and texture.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the chicken breasts up to 24 hours before. Just remember to cook them a bit longer if they're straight from the fridge.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These chicken breasts keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Just make sure your BBQ sauce and ranch seasoning are gluten-free. Most of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten issues.

What side dishes pair well with BBQ Ranch Chicken?

Choose sides that match the rich flavors: roasted veggies, garlic mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. These sides balance the chicken's richness and add nutrients.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

For more heat, use spicy BBQ sauce, add diced jalapeños, or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the ranch. You can also use hot pepper cheese instead of mild Pepper Jack.

BBQ Ranch Chicken Stuffed with Pepper Jack & Bacon: 5 Amazing Secrets for Perfect Stuffed Chicken

Name: BBQ Ranch Chicken Stuffed with Pepper Jack & Bacon - Ultimate Recipe Guide
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each); 8 slices thick-cut bacon; 1 cup Pepper Jack cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce; 1/4 cup ranch dressing; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Description

Tender chicken breasts stuffed with melted Pepper Jack cheese and crispy bacon, glazed with tangy BBQ ranch sauce. This restaurant-quality dish combines smoky, creamy, and savory flavors in every bite. Perfect for family dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–8 oz each)

8 slices thick-cut bacon

1 cup Pepper Jack cheese, shredded

1/2 cup BBQ sauce

1/4 cup ranch dressing

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil

Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking dish with parchment paper

2. Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble into small pieces and set aside

3. Butterfly each chicken breast by cutting horizontally through the middle, leaving one edge connected

4. Season inside and outside of chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder

5. Mix BBQ sauce and ranch dressing in a small bowl to create the glaze

6. Stuff each chicken breast with shredded Pepper Jack cheese and crumbled bacon

7. Secure the opening with toothpicks and brush with olive oil

8. Wrap each stuffed breast with 2 slices of uncooked bacon and secure with toothpicks

9. Place in prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F

10. Brush with BBQ ranch glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking

11. Remove toothpicks and let rest for 5 minutes before serving

12. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired

Notes

For best results, pound chicken breasts to even thickness before butterflying

Use room temperature cheese for easier melting

Internal temperature must reach 165°F for food safety

Leftovers keep in refrigerator for 3-4 days

Can be prepared 24 hours ahead and refrigerated before cooking

For spicier version, add diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture

Substitute with Monterey Jack or cheddar if Pepper Jack unavailable

Prep Time: 20
Cook Time: 30
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
Calories: 485
Sugar: 8
Sodium: 950
Fat: 28
Saturated Fat: 12
Unsaturated Fat: 14
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 12
Fiber: 1
Protein: 42
Cholesterol: 125