Bacon Wrapped Chicken: The Ultimate Guide to Deliciousness

Bacon wrapped chicken: just the name alone conjures up images of crispy, smoky bacon embracing juicy, tender chicken. Are you ready to experience a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly simple to create? This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a culinary hug on a plate, guaranteed to become a family favorite.

While the exact origins of wrapping chicken in bacon are shrouded in delicious mystery, the concept itself is timeless. Cultures around the world have long understood the magic that happens when fat renders and infuses lean protein with flavor. Think of it as a modern twist on classic techniques, bringing together the best of both worlds.

What makes bacon wrapped chicken so irresistible? It’s the perfect marriage of textures: the satisfying crunch of perfectly cooked bacon giving way to the succulent, melt-in-your-mouth chicken. The smoky, salty bacon complements the mild chicken beautifully, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, this recipe delivers every time. And let’s be honest, who can resist the allure of bacon?

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick strips
• 1 lb bacon, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Toothpicks, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Preparing the Chicken and Bacon

Okay, let’s get started! First, we need to prep our chicken and bacon. This is a crucial step to ensure everything cooks evenly and the flavors meld together beautifully.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Take your chicken breasts and cut them into strips that are about 1-inch thick. The size is important because we want them to cook through without the bacon burning. If the strips are too thick, the bacon will be overcooked before the chicken is done. If they’re too thin, the chicken might dry out. Aim for that sweet spot! Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels. This helps the bacon adhere better and also promotes browning.
2. Slice the Bacon: If your bacon slices are particularly long, you might want to cut them in half. This makes them easier to wrap around the chicken. We want each piece of chicken to be fully enveloped in bacon, but not overwhelmed by it.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the bacon to render its fat and crisp up nicely while the chicken cooks through.

Making the Glaze

Now, for the magic ingredient – the glaze! This is what takes our bacon-wrapped chicken from good to absolutely irresistible. The combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors is simply divine.

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined and the brown sugar is dissolved as much as possible. The Dijon mustard acts as an emulsifier, helping the glaze cling to the chicken and bacon. The smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the bacon perfectly.
2. Taste and Adjust: Give the glaze a taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a little more brown sugar. If you want more of a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Remember, you’re the chef, so make it your own!

Wrapping and Glazing the Chicken

This is where the fun begins! We’re going to wrap each piece of chicken in bacon and then coat it with our delicious glaze. This process ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

1. Wrap the Chicken: Take one chicken strip and wrap a slice of bacon around it, overlapping the ends slightly. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if necessary. Soaking the toothpicks in water beforehand prevents them from burning in the oven. Make sure the bacon is wrapped snugly around the chicken, but not too tightly, as this can prevent it from cooking evenly.
2. Repeat: Repeat the wrapping process with the remaining chicken strips and bacon slices. Arrange the wrapped chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan and make cleanup a breeze.
3. Glaze the Chicken: Brush the glaze generously over the bacon-wrapped chicken, making sure to coat all sides. Don’t be shy with the glaze! It’s what gives the chicken its amazing flavor and beautiful caramelized finish.

Baking the Bacon-Wrapped Chicken

Time to bake our masterpiece! The oven will work its magic, transforming the raw chicken and bacon into a tender, juicy, and flavorful dish.

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
2. Baste (Optional): During the last 10 minutes of baking, you can baste the chicken with the glaze again for an extra layer of flavor and a more caramelized finish. This step is optional, but it definitely adds a little something special.
3. Broil (Optional): For extra crispy bacon, you can broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the bacon from burning.

Serving and Enjoying

The moment we’ve all been waiting for! It’s time to serve and enjoy our delicious bacon-wrapped chicken. This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even a snack.

1. Rest: Remove the bacon-wrapped chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
2. Remove Toothpicks: If you used toothpicks, carefully remove them before serving.
3. Serve: Serve the bacon-wrapped chicken hot. It’s delicious on its own or with your favorite sides.

Serving Suggestions:

• Appetizer: Serve the bacon-wrapped chicken as an appetizer at your next party or gathering. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• Main Course: Serve it as a main course with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad.
• Snack: Enjoy it as a snack anytime you’re craving something savory and delicious.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a little heat.
• Sweeten it up: Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
• Add cheese: Stuff the chicken with cheese before wrapping it in bacon for an extra cheesy treat.
• Use different bacon: Experiment with different types of bacon, such as applewood smoked or peppered bacon.

Storage Instructions:

Leftover bacon-wrapped chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This bacon wrapped chicken recipe is truly a game-changer, and I wholeheartedly believe it deserves a permanent spot in your regular dinner rotation. Why? Because it’s ridiculously easy, incredibly flavorful, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, even for the pickiest eaters. We’re talking juicy, tender chicken enveloped in crispy, smoky bacon – a match made in culinary heaven! Forget dry, boring chicken dinners; this recipe delivers a burst of savory goodness with every single bite.

But beyond the simplicity and deliciousness, what really makes this recipe a must-try is its versatility. It’s a fantastic base that you can easily adapt to your own tastes and preferences. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a sprinkle of brown sugar to the bacon before wrapping for a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the saltiness. Or, for a spicier kick, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce into the chicken marinade. The possibilities are truly endless!

And let’s talk serving suggestions. This bacon wrapped chicken is fantastic served alongside a variety of side dishes. For a classic pairing, consider creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. If you’re looking for something a little lighter, a fresh salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a perfect complement. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes, also work beautifully. And for a truly indulgent meal, why not serve it with a side of mac and cheese?

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your sides! This recipe is incredibly forgiving and pairs well with a wide range of flavors and textures. You could even chop up the cooked chicken and bacon and add it to a salad, pasta dish, or even a pizza topping! The smoky, savory flavor of the bacon adds a delicious depth to any dish.

I’ve personally made this recipe countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or even special occasions. It’s a guaranteed way to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. And the best part? It’s so easy to make that even novice cooks can master it with ease.

I truly believe that this bacon wrapped chicken recipe is a winner, and I’m confident that you’ll love it just as much as I do. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience chicken like never before!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover just how delicious and easy it is to make. Once you’ve given it a go, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What sides did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think?

Please, don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and feedback in the comments below. Your insights are invaluable, and I’m always eager to learn from your culinary adventures. Happy cooking, and I hope you enjoy this bacon wrapped chicken as much as I do! I can’t wait to hear all about it!