BBQ Avocado Bacon and Cheddar Chicken

My Go-To Weeknight Dinner: BBQ Avocado Bacon and Cheddar Chicken

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can feel like a monumental task. I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are quick, easy, and satisfying—something that won't leave me slaving away in the kitchen after a long day at the office. That's where this BBQ Avocado Bacon and Cheddar Chicken recipe comes in. It’s become a staple in my household, and I'm excited to share it with you.

This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it's incredibly fast. From start to finish, you're looking at about 10-15 minutes of active cooking time. Second, it's incredibly flexible. Don't have avocado? Swap it for some sauteed mushrooms or a different cheese. Out of bacon? Grilled chicken is just as good, but it does lose that extra smoky flavor I really love. It's all about adapting it to what's in your fridge and pantry. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, it’s downright delicious! The combination of smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, creamy avocado, and sharp cheddar is a flavor explosion in every bite. The chicken remains juicy and tender, and the slightly crispy edges give it the perfect texture.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It's the kind of dish that you can throw together even when you're tired or short on time. I often make it on busy weeknights when I need a meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. The cleanup is also a breeze – a quick wipe of the skillet is usually all it takes. And, the kids love it, which makes it an even bigger win! It feels indulgent but isn’t too unhealthy as long as you keep portion sizes in check. You can easily make this recipe for two, four or even six, just scale up the ingredients accordingly.

I often serve this chicken with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables to make it a complete and well-rounded meal. Sometimes, if I’m feeling extra ambitious, I'll serve it over a bed of quinoa or rice. The versatility of this recipe is something I truly appreciate. I find myself making slight variations each time, swapping out ingredients or adding different spices based on my mood and what’s available. It’s the perfect recipe to adapt to your personal preferences.

Beyond weeknights, this recipe is also perfect for weekend brunches or casual get-togethers. It's impressive enough to serve to guests, but simple enough that you won't be stressed about preparing it. The flavors are bold and satisfying, making it a crowd-pleaser that's sure to impress. I've even been known to pack leftovers for lunch the next day - it reheats beautifully and tastes just as good cold!

If you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinner that the whole family will love, I highly recommend giving this BBQ Avocado Bacon and Cheddar Chicken recipe a try. It’s become a cherished part of my meal routine, and I have a feeling it'll become one of yours too. So, grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying meal that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.

Step-by-step

• Add bacon halves to a large, 12" skillet over medium heat then saute until browned.
• Remove bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain then remove all but 1 Tablespoon bacon grease from the skillet and turn the heat up slightly.
• Season chicken cutlets on both sides with salt and pepper then add to the skillet and saute until golden brown on one side, 2-3 minutes.
• Flip then spread a heaping Tablespoon BBQ sauce on top of each cutlet, followed by 2 bacon halves, 1/4 of the avocado slices, and 14 of the shredded cheese.
• Place a lid on top of the skillet then cook until the cheese has melted and chicken is cooked through, 2 minutes.
• Transfer onto plates then serve.