:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/simply-recipes-loaded-chicken-breasts-lead-1-095b3427f75e406b99e597a0f7bbdfdd.jpg)
My Loaded Chicken Breasts Are Ready In 15 Minutes Flat
Give chicken breasts the loaded baked potato treatment by topping with melty cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions. This show-stopping weeknight main dish is ready in 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2chicken breasts (1 1/4 to 1 1/2 pounds), or 4 cutlets
- 1 teaspoongarlic salt
- ½ teaspoonseasoned salt
- ½ teaspoonground black pepper
- 2 teaspoonsneutral oil, like avocado or canola
- 1 cupshredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mixture of both)
- 4slices cooked bacon , crumbled
- 2green onions, sliced
Directions
- 1
Prepare the chicken: If you’re using whole chicken breasts, lay each one flat on a cutting board and use a large, sharp knife to slice them in half horizontally, making 4 cutlets. Season the chicken breasts all over with the garlic salt, seasoned salt, and pepper.
- 2
Cook the chicken: Heat a large stainless steel or cast iron skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes. Add the oil and tilt the pan to coat. Add the chicken breasts in a single layer and let them sear without moving, until they are well-browned and can easily release from the pan, 4 to 5 minutes. Using tongs or a spatula, turn the chicken over and sear until the internal temperature registers 160 to 165ºF, about 5 minutes. If the chicken is not all the way cooked through, turn the heat down to medium low and continue to cook, alternating 1 minute on each side, until it’s done. This may take up to 3 additional minutes if your chicken breasts are on the larger side.
- 3
Load it up: Turn the heat down to low. Sprinkle on the cheese, then cover the pan for 3 minutes to allow it to melt thoroughly. Uncover the pan. Sprinkle on the bacon and green onions and serve right away. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If possible, store the toppings separately. Love the recipe? Leave us stars and a comment below!