Flatten the chicken (optional):

If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound the thicker parts. This helps each piece cook evenly and stay juicy. You can also use thin-sliced chicken breasts to save time.

Prepare the marinade:

In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor, mix in about 1 tablespoon of honey mustard.

Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the top. Make sure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate up to overnight.

You can cook the bacon using either the skillet or oven method.

Skillet Method:

Place bacon strips in a cold skillet in a single layer.

Turn heat to medium and cook until crispy, flipping occasionally.

This usually takes 8–12 minutes depending on thickness.

Transfer bacon to paper towels to drain excess grease.

Let cool slightly, then crumble or chop into pieces.

Oven Method:

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.

Arrange bacon in a single layer.

Bake for 18–23 minutes until crispy.

Transfer to paper towels to remove excess grease.

Crumble or chop once slightly cooled.

Optional toppings:

If using caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms, prepare them now.

Melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat.

Add sliced onions or mushrooms.

Cook slowly until soft and golden, stirring often.

Caramelized onions typically take 15–20 minutes.

You can cook the marinated chicken on a grill or in a skillet.

Grilling Instructions:

Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Place chicken on the grill and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Remove from grill and generously baste with honey mustard sauce.

Pan-Frying Instructions:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add a drizzle of olive oil or non-stick spray.

Place chicken in the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.

Internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Remove from pan and baste with honey mustard sauce.

After basting the chicken with honey mustard, place a slice of cheese or sprinkle shredded cheese over each piece.

If grilling: return chicken to the grill until the cheese melts.

If pan-frying: cover the skillet to melt the cheese or broil in the oven for about 3 minutes until bubbly and melted.