Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) for baking, or prepare a frying pan with about 1/2 inch of oil over medium heat for stovetop cooking.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and chopped bacon. Stir until well combined.
- Step 3: Place one chicken breast flat on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to carefully cut a pocket into the side of the thickest part, cutting horizontally but not all the way through. Repeat for remaining chicken breasts.
- Step 4: Spoon a generous amount of the cream cheese-bacon mixture into the pocket of each chicken breast. Use one or two toothpicks to hold the edges together if needed (remember to remove before serving).
- Step 5: Set up three shallow dishes. Add all-purpose flour to the first, beaten eggs to the second, and combine crushed Doritos crumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the third. Stir the Dorito mixture.
- Step 6: Dredge each stuffed chicken breast lightly in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring full coating. Transfer to the crushed Doritos mixture and press crumbs firmly onto the entire surface to create a solid crust. Repeat for remaining chicken breasts.
- Step 7: Cook the chicken. To oven-bake: Place coated chicken on a greased baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). To pan-fry: Heat oil in skillet over medium heat, carefully place chicken in hot oil, and fry for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Notes
Substitutions & Additions: Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese. Experiment with Cool Ranch Doritos, crushed tortilla chips, or cornflakes. Stir in finely chopped cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or diced jalapeños into the filling. Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for spice. Mix fresh chopped chives, parsley, or dried Italian seasoning into the cream cheese mixture.
Tips for Success: Don't overstuff the chicken pocket. Crush Doritos into crumbs, not powder, for texture. Press the Doritos crumbs firmly onto the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can make the cream cheese and bacon filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge.
How to Store It: Let the chicken cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness (microwaving will make coating less crispy).
