Bacon Wrapped Chicken: Juicy, Crispy, and Bursting with Flavor

Bacon wrapped chicken is a classic dish that combines the savory, smoky flavor of bacon with tender, juicy chicken. It’s the perfect recipe for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or special occasions. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—just a few ingredients, and you’re set for a meal that everyone will love. In this article, you’ll learn how to make the perfect bacon wrapped chicken and explore a variety of delicious variations and side dishes to serve with it.

If you’re a fan of comfort food, check out The Ultimate Comfort Food: Crockpot Potato Soup with Hashbrowns, which pairs wonderfully with bacon-wrapped chicken for a hearty meal. Or, for a pasta option, try Slow Cooker Magic: Unveiling the Ease of Crock Pot Baked Ziti.

Key Ingredients for Bacon Wrapped Chicken

Making this dish requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Boneless and skinless work best.
• Bacon: Regular cut is ideal because it wraps easily around the chicken.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Optional ingredients:
  • Cheese: Stuff the chicken with mozzarella or cream cheese for added flavor.
  • Herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
  • Honey or maple syrup: A drizzle of sweetness adds a lovely contrast to the savory bacon.

For more dinner inspiration, don’t miss No Peek Beef Tips: The Ultimate Comfort Food You’ve Been Missing, another crowd-pleaser perfect for family meals.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon Wrapped Chicken

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

30 minutes

Servings:

4 servings

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This will give the chicken a flavorful base.
3. Wrap with bacon: Take 2 to 3 strips of bacon per chicken breast and wrap them tightly around the chicken, securing the ends underneath. You can also use toothpicks to secure the bacon.
4. Bake the chicken: Place the bacon-wrapped chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). If you prefer crispier bacon, turn on the broiler for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
5. Rest before serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain moisture.

Pro tip: If you want extra crispy bacon, you can partially cook the bacon for 5 minutes before wrapping the chicken.

Tips for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Chicken

• Pre-cook the bacon: This ensures the bacon becomes crispy without overcooking the chicken.
• Use a meat thermometer: To avoid dry chicken, check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Tuck in the bacon ends: Keep the bacon from unwrapping during cooking by tucking the ends underneath or securing them with toothpicks.

For more tips and tricks, visit Perfect Ribeye Steak Recipe: Master the Art of Steak Cooking for a steak-cooking guide that pairs beautifully with bacon-wrapped chicken.

Popular Variations of Bacon Wrapped Chicken

While the classic version is always a hit, you can switch things up with these variations:

• Cheese-Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Chicken: For a creamy twist, stuff the chicken breasts with mozzarella or cream cheese before wrapping them in bacon.
• BBQ Bacon Wrapped Chicken: Brush the chicken with barbecue sauce before baking for a smoky, tangy flavor.
• Honey Garlic Bacon Wrapped Chicken: Drizzle honey and garlic over the bacon before cooking for a sweet and savory combination.
• Spicy Bacon Wrapped Chicken: Sprinkle cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a bit of heat.

These variations make this dish incredibly versatile, perfect for impressing guests or just spicing up a regular dinner.

Nutritional Information and Healthier Alternatives

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 5g

Healthier Alternatives:

• Use turkey bacon: Lower in fat but still packed with flavor.
• Opt for chicken thighs: A more flavorful and juicier alternative to chicken breasts.
• Reduce sodium: Use low-sodium bacon and seasonings to reduce the overall sodium content.

For more comfort food inspiration, consider Chicken Bacon Ranch Potatoes: Your New Favorite Comfort Dish, another great side dish option for bacon-wrapped chicken.

Serving Suggestions for Bacon Wrapped Chicken

Bacon wrapped chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting, neutral base.
• Roasted vegetables: Try roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots for a healthy balance.
• Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the bacon.

For dessert, you can serve Kentucky Butter Cake: A Slice of Southern Comfort for a sweet finish to your savory meal.

How to Store, Reheat, and Freeze Bacon Wrapped Chicken

Storing Leftovers:

• Store bacon wrapped chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for a quicker option.

Freezing:

• You can freeze bacon wrapped chicken before or after cooking. To freeze before cooking, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long should you cook bacon wrapped chicken in the oven?

Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can you cook bacon wrapped chicken in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Do you need to pre-cook the bacon before wrapping chicken?

While not necessary, pre-cooking the bacon for 5-7 minutes ensures it will be crispy after baking.

Can you freeze bacon wrapped chicken before cooking?

Yes, simply wrap the uncooked chicken in plastic and foil before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not pre-cooking the bacon: Leads to undercooked, chewy bacon.
• Overcooking the chicken: Results in dry, tough chicken. Always use a meat thermometer.
• Skipping the seasoning: Ensure both the chicken and bacon are seasoned for full flavor.

Conclusion

Bacon wrapped chicken is a simple yet delicious dish that combines the best of both worlds: crispy bacon and tender chicken. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this dish never disappoints. With so many variations, you can easily tailor it to your personal taste.

For more amazing comfort food recipes, don’t forget to check out Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Over Noodles: The Ultimate Comfort Food and Dorito Chicken Casserole: A Crunchy Twist on Comfort Food for more meal ideas.