Creamy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken Breast

This Jalapeno Popper Bacon Hasselback Stuffed Chicken is a culinary masterpiece that combines the creamy, spicy goodness of jalapeno poppers with the innovative hasselback technique, all wrapped around juicy chicken breasts. This healthy, low-carb, and keto-friendly recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also promises an explosion of flavor in every bite. Baked to perfection, the chicken breasts are generously smothered in a rich blend of crispy bacon, smooth cream cheese, and sharp cheddar, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner or an impressive meal prep option. Beyond individual servings, the versatility of this filling allows for exciting variations, from creating a hearty casserole to a delectable dip.

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I first created this recipe several years ago, and it quickly became a household favorite. After some recent updates and refinements, I’ve completely rediscovered my love for this incredible dish! Its simplicity and mouthwatering flavor make it perfect for efficient meal preparation, ensuring you have delicious, healthy meals ready to go throughout your busy week. For a truly complete dining experience, be sure to explore the fantastic side dishes recommended below that perfectly complement the bold flavors of this Hasselback chicken.

The Art of Hasselback Chicken Breast: A Flavorful and Healthy Twist

Transforming a simple chicken breast into a culinary delight is easier than you think, especially when you infuse it with the irresistible flavors of a jalapeno popper and employ the elegant Hasselback technique. This recipe isn’t just about stuffing chicken; it’s about creating a dish where every slice is perfectly seasoned and packed with creamy, spicy, and savory goodness. Ideal for those on a keto or low-carb diet, this dish proves that healthy eating can be incredibly delicious and satisfying. The hasselback method ensures that the chicken cooks evenly, stays incredibly moist, and allows the rich filling to permeate every crevice, delivering an unparalleled taste experience.

What is Hasselback? Unveiling the Technique

The intriguing name “Hasselback” originates from the Hasselbacken restaurant in Stockholm, Sweden, where the famous Hasselback potatoes were first introduced. While it sounds sophisticated, the technique itself is surprisingly simple and brilliant. It involves making several parallel cuts across the top of your food item – in this case, a chicken breast – without slicing all the way through the bottom. These cuts create pockets that expand during cooking, allowing butter, seasonings, and, most importantly for our recipe, a delicious filling, to seep deep into the food. For chicken, this method not only enhances flavor absorption but also helps the breast cook more evenly and prevents it from drying out, resulting in a beautifully presented and incredibly tender dish.

Selecting the Perfect Chicken for Stuffing

For this Hasselback Stuffed Chicken recipe, choosing the right cut of chicken is paramount to achieving the best results. Skinless, boneless chicken breasts are unequivocally the top choice. Their uniform thickness and relatively lean nature make them ideal for creating the precise hasselback slices and for holding the creamy filling securely. They cook efficiently and remain wonderfully juicy when prepared correctly.

While other cuts like chicken thighs might offer a different flavor profile, they are generally fattier and contain more connective tissue, which can cause them to fall apart during the stuffing and baking process. The goal here is a cohesive, perfectly stuffed chicken breast that maintains its elegant shape. Therefore, stick to good quality, medium to large skinless chicken breasts for ease of preparation and superior structural integrity of your Hasselback creation.

Crafting Your Jalapeno Popper Chicken Filling: The Heart of the Flavor

The star of this dish, besides the chicken itself, is undeniably the rich and zesty jalapeno popper filling. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that perfectly complements the lean chicken breast. To create this irresistible mixture, you’ll combine softened cream cheese, which provides a luxurious base, with crispy crumbled bacon for a salty, smoky depth. Finely chopped fresh jalapenos introduce that signature popper heat – adjust the amount based on your preferred spice level! Shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses melt beautifully, adding extra creaminess and a sharp tang. Finally, a squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the entire mixture, while chopped green onions contribute a subtle, fresh oniony kick. This filling is not only easy to prepare but is also incredibly versatile; you can even use it as a standalone dip or spread for other dishes.

How to Make Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken: Step-by-Step

Preparing this flavorful stuffed chicken dish is straightforward, even for novice cooks. Follow these detailed steps to create a show-stopping meal:

1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, the majority of your crumbled cooked bacon (reserving some for garnish), finely chopped fresh jalapenos, shredded mozzarella cheese, and about half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Add fresh lime juice and finely chopped green onions. Stir all ingredients together until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and easily spreadable.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning both sides of your boneless, skinless chicken breasts with your preferred chicken rub or seasoning, along with salt and pepper. Lay each breast flat on a cutting board. To create the “hasselback” effect, make several horizontal slits across the top of each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through; aim to cut about two-thirds of the way down into the breast. Ensure your slits are spaced evenly to allow for consistent cooking. Alternatively, for a simpler method, you can make a single deep pocket cut into the side of each breast, as demonstrated in many Keto Spinach Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken recipes.
3. Stuff the Chicken: Carefully spoon or pipe the prepared cream cheese mixture into each of the slits or into the side pocket. Be generous but avoid overstuffing, as some filling might ooze out during baking. If some does escape, you can gently wipe it away with a paper towel.
4. Initial Bake: Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the chicken for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until its internal temperature reaches around 140°F (60°C). Use a reliable meat thermometer for accuracy.
5. Final Bake with Cheese: Remove the chicken from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Return the chicken to the oven and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Garnish: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with the reserved crumbled bacon and extra fresh jalapeno slices or green onions, if desired, for an appealing presentation and an extra burst of flavor.

Customizing Your Stuffed Chicken: Variations and Substitutes

One of the joys of cooking is customization, and this Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Bacon Substitutes:

If you’re looking for alternatives to traditional pork bacon, or simply want to try a different flavor profile, consider these options:

• Turkey Bacon: A leaner alternative that still provides a smoky, savory crunch.
• Smoked Ham or Prosciutto: Offers a different kind of salty, cured meat flavor. Chop finely and crisp up before adding to the filling.
• Cooked Sausage Crumble: Adds a heartier, spiced element. Breakfast sausage or Italian sausage can work well.
• Mushrooms (finely chopped and sautéed): For a vegetarian or umami-rich option, sautéed mushrooms can mimic some of the savory depth.

Additional Veggies and Cheese to Stuff:

Boost the flavor and nutritional content by incorporating other vegetables or cheeses into your filling or as extra toppings:

• Artichoke Hearts: Offer a tangy, earthy note. Chop them finely.
• Sun-dried Tomatoes: Provide a concentrated sweet and savory burst of flavor.
• Spinach: Wilted and squeezed dry, spinach adds a touch of freshness and nutrients.
• Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can add an earthy, savory depth.
• Bell Peppers: Finely diced bell peppers (any color) introduce sweetness and a subtle crunch.
• Tomatoes: Diced fresh tomatoes, or even roasted cherry tomatoes, can add juiciness.
• Cream Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different soft cheeses like goat cheese or Boursin for varied flavor.
• Cheese Varieties:
  • Gouda Cheese: Adds a sweet, nutty, and slightly smoky flavor.
  • Provolone Cheese: Offers a mild, buttery, and slightly sharp taste.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Excellent for its melting qualities and mild flavor, allowing other ingredients to shine.
  • Pepper Jack: For an extra spicy kick, replace cheddar with pepper jack.

Nutritional Insights: Keto and Low-Carb Friendly

This Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken is specifically designed to be a healthy and satisfying option for those following ketogenic or low-carb diets. We understand the importance of tracking macros, and this recipe delivers on that front without compromising on taste. Each serving is carefully balanced to fit within your dietary goals.

Per serving, this recipe contains approximately 3 net carbs, making it an excellent choice for maintaining ketosis. The primary macronutrient profile emphasizes protein and healthy fats, which contribute to satiety and sustained energy levels.

When it comes to calorie count, this Hasselback chicken recipe averages around 291 calories per serving. This calculation is based on using two average-sized chicken breasts, totaling approximately 1.5 pounds, and dividing the recipe into four servings, meaning one serving is roughly half of one chicken breast. This makes it easy to incorporate into your daily meal plan, whether you’re aiming for weight management or simply a nutritious, flavorful dish.

Remember that precise nutritional values can vary slightly depending on the exact brands and quantities of ingredients you use. For the most accurate personal tracking, always refer to the specific products in your pantry or use a reliable nutrition calculator with your exact ingredient inputs.

Optimal Baking Temperature and Food Safety

Achieving perfectly cooked, juicy chicken is key to a successful dish. For this Hasselback Stuffed Chicken, I recommend baking at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C). This temperature is hot enough to cook the chicken through and melt the cheese beautifully, without drying out the meat.

However, oven temperatures can vary, and chicken breasts come in different sizes and thicknesses. Therefore, the cooking time will always be approximate. The most crucial aspect of cooking chicken is ensuring it reaches a safe internal temperature. Always use a reliable meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, avoiding any bones or the filling, to get an accurate reading. Chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees that your chicken is not only safe to eat but also incredibly tender and moist.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Hasselback Chicken

This flavorful Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Whether you prefer comforting classics or lighter, low-carb alternatives, here are some excellent recommendations:

• Purple Sweet Potato: A vibrant and nutritious side offering a touch of sweetness to balance the chicken’s savory profile.
• Roasted Ranch Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with herby ranch flavor.
• Air Fryer Asparagus: A quick and easy green vegetable that adds freshness and a slight crunch.
• Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes: Perfectly golden and tender, an effortless potato side.
• Air Fryer Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots with a beautiful glaze, adding a pop of color.
• Creamy Ranch Mashed Potatoes: A comforting, rich, and flavorful mashed potato dish that’s a crowd-pleaser.
• Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice: For a light and low-carb option, this flavorful “rice” provides a zesty complement.
• Keto Broccoli Salad: A fresh and crunchy salad that perfectly fits a low-carb lifestyle.
• Keto Zucchini Noodle Pasta Salad: Another fantastic low-carb choice, offering a fresh and vibrant pasta-like experience.
• Balsamic Green Bean Salad: Crisp green beans tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing, offering a refreshing contrast.
• Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers: If you can’t get enough of the jalapeno popper flavor, serve extra poppers on the side!

More Delicious Main Dish Recipes to Explore

If you enjoyed this Hasselback chicken recipe, you’ll love these other fantastic main course ideas from our collection. Each offers unique flavors and satisfying meals perfect for any day of the week:

• Maple Glazed Salmon: Sweet and savory, this salmon dish is quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful.
• Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Crispy, cheesy chicken made effortlessly in the air fryer.
• Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders: For those who love a spicy kick, these tenders deliver on flavor and heat.
• Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon: Infused with smoky cedar flavor, a gourmet-style salmon that’s surprisingly easy.
• Pan Seared Salmon: A classic preparation that results in perfectly flaky salmon with crispy skin.
• Jerk Chicken Thighs: Bold and spicy Caribbean flavors that bring an exciting twist to your chicken dinner.
• Traeger Smoked Bacon: Perfect for making your own flavorful bacon to use in recipes like this one, or simply to enjoy on its own.

Meal Prep Made Easy: Storage and Freezer Tips

This Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken is an excellent candidate for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy delicious, healthy meals even on your busiest days. Proper storage ensures your chicken stays fresh and flavorful.

How to Store the Dish: After cooking, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. I highly recommend using glass containers, as they help maintain freshness and prevent any flavor absorption. Store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. As you may know, cooked chicken can sometimes dry out when reheated. To keep your Hasselback chicken juicy and moist, I have a simple trick: squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice over the chicken each day before you reheat it. This simple step revitalizes the flavors and adds a welcome burst of moisture.

Freezer Tips: For longer storage, this chicken freezes beautifully. Once the cooked chicken has cooled, wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. This double-layer protection helps prevent freezer burn. The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of lime juice for moisture.

Jalapeno Popper Chicken Breast

Author: Brandi Crawford

This Jalapeno Popper Bacon Hasselback Stuffed Chicken is a quick and easy, healthy recipe with baked chicken breasts smothered in bacon, cream cheese, and cheddar. You can even load up on the filling and create an amazing casserole or dip!

Rating: 4.86 from 14 votes

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Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 25 mins

Total Time: 40 mins

Course: Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine: American

Servings: 4

Calories: 291 kcal

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Equipment

• Meat Thermometer
• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds skinless chicken breasts
• 3 slices cooked and crumbled bacon (2 slices for filling, 1 for garnish)
• 2 oz cream cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (¼ cup for stuffing, ¼ cup for topping)
• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh green onions (Finely chopped)
• ½ – 1 whole jalapeno (Finely chopped; adjust for spice preference)
• Chicken Rub or Seasoning to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet, optionally lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Soften the cream cheese by placing it in a microwave-safe bowl and heating for 15-20 seconds. In the bowl with the softened cream cheese, combine 2 slices of crumbled cooked bacon, finely chopped jalapenos, shredded mozzarella, and ¼ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Add fresh lime juice and finely chopped green onions. Stir all ingredients until a uniform, creamy mixture is formed.
3. Pat the skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season one side of each chicken breast generously with your chosen chicken rub or seasoning, salt, and pepper. Flip the breasts over.
4. On the unseasoned side, make several horizontal slits into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through to the bottom. Each cut should go about two-thirds of the way deep. Aim for even spacing between slits, which helps ensure the chicken cooks uniformly.
5. Carefully stuff the prepared cream cheese mixture into each of the slits. Be gentle but thorough to ensure each pocket is filled. Once stuffed, season the top of the chicken breasts with additional chicken seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches approximately 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer to check. The chicken is not fully cooked at this stage.
7. Remove the chicken from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of both chicken breasts.
8. Return the chicken to the oven and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
9. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender chicken. Garnish with the remaining crumbled bacon and fresh jalapeno slices or green onions, if desired.

Notes

Air Fryer Method: You can adapt this recipe for your air fryer! Cook the chicken at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model and chicken thickness.

Seasoning Options: Feel free to use your favorite chicken seasoning blend, rub, or a simple mix of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.

Mess-Free Stuffing: Stuffing the hasselback slits can get a bit messy. Keep a damp towel nearby for your hands. If any excess filling oozes out during stuffing or baking, you can gently wipe it away with a paper towel.

Meat Thermometer is Essential: To guarantee juicy, safe-to-eat chicken and prevent overcooking (which leads to dry chicken), always use a reliable meat thermometer. It’s the best way to ensure perfect results every time.

Even Slices Matter: The key to even cooking and a beautiful presentation in the hasselback technique is to make sure your slits are consistent in depth and spacing. Uneven slices can lead to parts of the chicken cooking faster or drying out.

Nutrition

Serving: 0.5 chicken breast

Calories: 291 kcal

Carbohydrates: 3 g

Protein: 40 g

Fat: 14 g

Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.

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