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Pepper Jack Crack Chicken Recipe

4.8 from 112 reviews

Pepper Jack Crack Chicken is a deliciously rich and creamy baked chicken dish, featuring tender chicken tenderloins smothered in a flavorful blend of cream cheese, spicy Pepper Jack cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this recipe combines bold flavors with a simple baking method for an easy yet indulgent meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 Lbs. Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins

Cheese Mixture

  • 8 oz. Cream Cheese, Softened
  • 16 oz. Pepper Jack Cheese, Shredded (divided)

Additional Ingredients

  • 1/2 Bunch of Green Onions, Diced (divided)
  • 3 oz. Crumbled Bacon Pieces (divided)
  • 1 tsp. Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp. Onion Powder
  • 1 tsp. Salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 8 oz. of shredded Pepper Jack cheese, half of the diced green onions, half of the crumbled bacon pieces, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well blended.
  2. Arrange Chicken: Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Place the boneless skinless chicken tenderloins evenly in the baking dish.
  3. Add Cheese Mixture: Spread the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of the chicken tenderloins, ensuring they are nicely covered.
  4. Top with Remaining Ingredients: Sprinkle the remaining shredded Pepper Jack cheese, bacon pieces, and diced green onions over the cream cheese layer, creating a flavorful topping.
  5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Bake the dish uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and browned.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken is fully cooked for food safety.
  • For extra crispiness, broil the dish for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  • You can substitute regular shredded cheese if Pepper Jack is unavailable, but it will alter the flavor profile.
  • This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Keywords: Pepper Jack Crack Chicken, baked chicken, creamy chicken recipe, cheesy chicken, bacon chicken recipe, easy dinner, comfort food