Hunter’s Chicken is a classic British comfort food that blends chicken breast with smoky bacon and rich barbecue sauce. Traditionally served with melted cheese on top, this perfect dish is now being taken to a new level, with the delicious cheese stuffed inside the chicken for an even more delicious bite.
In this homemade Hunter’s Chicken recipe with cheese, we’ll guide you through the process of preparing the chicken, stuffing it with your favorite cheese, wrapping it in bacon, baking it to perfection, and serving it with complementary sides that make it a complete meal. Whether you're cooking for the family or hosting guests, this cheesy Hunter’s Chicken bake is sure to impress. So next time you're wondering what to cook for dinner, the answer is cheesy Hunter’s Chicken. It’s flavorful, filling, and completely irresistible.
The Story Behind Hunter’s Chicken
Hunter’s Chicken doesn’t have ancient origins like some classic dishes, but it draws inspiration from rustic European cuisine. The term "Hunter’s" comes from the idea of hunter-style dishes, simple, hearty meals made from whatever ingredients hunters might have on hand in the countryside. These meals were often cooked over a fire or in a single pot, featuring meats, herbs, and vegetables.
While the British version of Hunter’s Chicken, chicken breast wrapped in bacon, topped with BBQ sauce and cheese, is a relatively modern invention (likely from the late 20th century), it was inspired by French "chasseur" (hunter-style) cooking. The French dish Poulet Chasseur uses chicken cooked with mushrooms, shallots, wine, and herbs.
Ingredients for Cheesy Hunter’s Chicken
To make this Hunter’s Chicken recipe with cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients.
Main Ingredients (For 4):
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 100g (3.5 oz) of cheese (Cheddar, Mozzarella, or a Calin’s Mozzarella Cheddar mix)
- 8 rashers of streaky bacon or back bacon
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Optional for Extra Flavor:
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary
Homemade Hunter’s Chicken Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C or 400°F for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Using a sharp knife, make a horizontal slit in each chicken breast to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and optional paprika or herbs inside and out.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken with Cheese
Cut your chosen cheese into thick slices or small chunks. Stuff each chicken breast with cheese. You can use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed. Use a strong-flavored cheese like Calin’s Natural Cheddar or Gouda for a bold taste, or mozzarella for a milder, melty center.
Step 4: Wrap in Bacon
Wrap each stuffed chicken breast with 2 rashers of bacon. Overlap the bacon slightly to help seal the cheese inside. Tuck the ends under or use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place.
Step 5: Frying the Surface
For extra crispiness, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Sear the bacon-wrapped chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. This step is optional but adds great texture.
Step 6: Add BBQ Sauce and Bake
Place the chicken in a baking dish. Pour BBQ sauce evenly over each piece.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 7: Add More Cheese
In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top of the chicken for a cheesy finish. Return to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade Hunter’s Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some serving ideas:
- Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter baby potatoes
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots
- Rustic chips or sweet potato fries
- Coleslaw or corn on the cob for a BBQ-style meal
- Fresh salad with balsamic dressing for a lighter option
Serve with a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce on the side and enjoy every sweet, cheesy bite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Hunter’s Chicken traditionally made of?
Hunter’s Chicken is a British pub classic made with chicken breast, bacon, BBQ sauce, and cheese. The traditional version has cheese melted on top, but Calin takes it further by stuffing the chicken with cheese for a richer flavor.
Which cheese works best for stuffing chicken?
Strong-flavored and melt-friendly cheeses work best. Try:
- Cheddar: classic and sharp
- Mozzarella: mild and gooey
- Gouda or Smoked Cheese: adds a unique, smoky twist
- Cream cheese: for extra creaminess inside
You can also mix cheeses for a more complex flavor.
How long should I bake Hunter’s Chicken?
Bake at 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F for about 25–30 minutes. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked through; the internal temperature should be 75°C (165°F).
Making Hunter’s Chicken with cheese inside is a simple twist that takes this classic dish to a new, cheesy taste. With just a few basic ingredients and our step-by-step homemade guide, you can create a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.