Hunters Chicken
A hands-off, comforting dish of tender chicken wrapped in smoky bacon, bathed in barbecue sauce, and topped with melted cheese, perfect for busy weeknights and chilly weekends.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5–2 lb / 700–900 g total) Chicken thighs can be used for darker meat.
- 8 slices bacon (regular or thick-cut) For crisper bacon, pre-cook briefly.
- 1 cup barbecue sauce Choose your favorite—sweet, smoky, or spicy.
- 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar or mozzarella are great options.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste Adjust seasoning as desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- Lightly preheat your slow cooker for 10–15 minutes on low or start with a cold insert.
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Wrap each breast with two slices of bacon, overlapping slightly; secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Place the wrapped breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer.
- Pour the barbecue sauce evenly over the chicken, coating each piece.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- About 30 minutes before serving, remove the lid, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the breasts, cover, and let the cheese melt.
- Optional: for crispier bacon and browned cheese, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and broil for 2–3 minutes.
Serving
- Serve hot, either as a main dish or in sandwiches.
Notes
This Hunters Chicken can be served over mashed potatoes, in sandwiches, or with a side of vegetables. Refrigerate leftovers for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Warm gently to reheat.