Step 1: Preheat Your Oven or Prepare for Frying

• For oven baking, preheat to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.

• For pan-frying, fill a large skillet with about ½ inch of oil and heat over medium.

Step 2: Make the Filling

• In a small mixing bowl, combine:

  • Cream cheese

  • Shredded mozzarella

  • Chopped cooked bacon

• Stir until fully mixed and creamy.

Pro Tip: Let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes before mixing to make it easier to combine.

Step 3: Slice and Stuff the Chicken

• Carefully slice a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Be sure not to cut all the way through.

• Fill each chicken breast with a generous spoonful of the cheese-bacon mixture.

• Use toothpicks to secure the openings if the stuffing threatens to spill out.

Step 4: Set Up Your Breading Stations

Prepare three shallow bowls:

1. Flour Station – Place 1 cup all-purpose flour.

2. Egg Station – Beat 2 large eggs.

3. Doritos Crust Station – Combine crushed Doritos, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Crushing Tip: Place Doritos in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin or pulse them in a food processor for a finer crumb.

Step 5: Bread the Chicken

• Dredge each stuffed breast in the flour, coating all sides.

• Dip into the beaten egg, letting excess drip off.

• Press into the Doritos mixture, coating thoroughly and pressing gently to help it adhere.

Step 6: Cook the Chicken

Option 1: Oven-Baked

• Place the breaded chicken breasts on your prepared baking sheet.

• Spray tops lightly with cooking spray for even browning.

• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).

Option 2: Pan-Fried

• Carefully place the chicken in hot oil.

• Fry each breast for 5–7 minutes per side, or until crisp, golden, and fully cooked.

• Drain on a paper towel-lined plate before serving.