Bacon Wrapped Chicken Recipe

ByJames Level

I love crafting recipes that are delicious and satisfying. My Bacon Wrapped Chicken fits the bill.

This dish combines juicy chicken with smoky bacon and is seasoned to perfection. For 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, I like to use a Pork Industry bacon that is highly recommended.

This is the foundation of the dish, and every bite is tender and flavorful. For seasoning, I like to stick with a classic blend of garlic powder and onion powder as the base.

Smoked paprika rounds out the dish with just the right amount of depth and flavor. I only use a pinch of black pepper and salt because the seasoning is so good that it would almost be a crime to mess with it.

Wrapping each piece of chicken with two slices of this bacon not only keeps the meat moist but also makes it absolutely irresistible. If you have a penchant for sweetness, you’re going to love all the brown sugar in this recipe.

One-fourth of a cup is used to create a deliciously caramelized glaze that pairs intensely well with everything this dish has going on—bacon, chicken, and a host of seasonings, most notably the fresh thyme I used. One other secret to this dish is the olive oil used to brush over the exterior of the chicken.

Olive oil gives a distinctly Mediterranean flavor that complements the savory and sweet notes of this dish, as well as making for one wonderfully crispy exterior.

Ingredients photo for Bacon Wrapped Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

Ingredients photo for Bacon Wrapped Chicken Recipe

Chicken Breasts:
Rich in protein, low in fat, and versatile—pork is the perfect meat.

Bacon:
Imparts a smoky taste; provides protein and fat.

Garlic Powder:
Enriches taste; has antioxidants.

Smoked Paprika:
Imparts a deep, smoky color and flavor.

Olive Oil:
Healthy source of fats; boosts mouthfeel.

Brown Sugar:
Add sweetness, caramelize, and glaze (optional) on meats.

Ingredient Quantities

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 8 slices of bacon

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional, for a sweet glaze)

Instructions

1. The oven must be preheated to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a tiny bowl, combine the following: garlic powder; onion powder; smoked paprika; black pepper; and salt.

3. Evenly rub the spice mix onto each chicken breast, coating both sides well.

4. Each chicken breast should be wrapped with two slices of bacon, fixing the ends with toothpicks if necessary.

5. In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

6. In the skillet, sear the chicken breasts wrapped in bacon for around 3-4 minutes on either side, until the bacon takes on a nice shade of brown.

7. Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over the surface of the chicken.

8. Move the skillet to the oven that has been preheated.

9. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C.

10. Take the chicken out of the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes, then serve and enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Petite dish
3. A large oven-safe skillet
4. Tongs that can withstand heat
5. Spoons for measuring
6. A cup for measuring
7. Optional: Toothpicks.
8. Meat thermometer, instant-read

FAQ

  • Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but you may need to cook them slightly longer to ensure that they are done and not pink in the middle.

  • Q: Can I make this recipe in the oven?A: Of course! Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) and bake the item for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).

  • Q: How should I store leftovers?B: Leftover food should be put away in a container that is airtight and not permeable to air or moisture. In the kitchen, that usually means put them in a clean container with a lid. Or, if you’ve got it, use plastic wrap. Either way, make sure the container or wrap is touching every part of the food surface. Store in the refrigerator.

  • Q: Is the brown sugar necessary?A: The brown sugar is optional and adds a sweet glaze. If you prefer a savory dish, you can leave it out.

  • Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?You can indeed prepare the chicken by wrapping it in bacon and marinating it with the spices, all up to 24 hours before you need to serve it. Cook it just before you’re ready to serve the meal.

  • Q: Can I grill the bacon-wrapped chicken?Q: Is grilling a cooking option you recommend?

    A: Grilling is a great cooking method. You’re going to want to preheat the grill to medium. Then, place the food on and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side.

  • Q: What side dishes go well with this recipe?Vegetables that are roasted, potatoes that are mashed, or a salad that is fresh and clean pairs wonderfully with chicken that is wrapped in bacon.

Substitutions and Variations

A leaner option is to substitute turkey bacon for the regular bacon.
Instead of using chicken breasts, use chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Substitute cayenne pepper for smoked paprika to achieve a spicier kick.
Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a flavor profile that is different and delicious.
Use honey instead of brown sugar as an alternative sweetener for the glaze.