bacon wrapped chicken

Craving a savory, crowd-pleasing dinner? Bacon Wrapped Chicken is a classic comfort food that brings together juicy chicken breasts and smoky, crispy bacon for a mouthwatering main course.

Enhanced with a sweet and smoky spice rub, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a show-stopping meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients List

Creating irresistible Bacon Wrapped Chicken requires a few key ingredients to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken and Seasoning Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 slices bacon (do not use thick cut)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Required Kitchen Tools

Having the right kitchen tools on hand will make preparing Bacon Wrapped Chicken a breeze. Here are the essentials:

1. Baking Pan or Ovenproof Skillet: For baking the chicken evenly and catching all those delicious pan drippings.
2. Small Mixing Bowl: To combine your spice rub ingredients.
3. Tongs: For wrapping and handling the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts.
4. Basting Brush (optional): To baste the chicken with pan drippings for extra flavor and moisture.
5. Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.

With these tools and ingredients ready, you’re set to create a delicious, bacon-wrapped masterpiece.

Chicken Preparation

Preparing the chicken and seasoning it well is key to achieving juicy, flavorful results. Follow these steps to get your chicken ready for wrapping and baking.

Mixing the Spice Rub

In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is evenly blended and fragrant. This sweet and smoky rub will infuse the chicken with bold flavor and help the bacon crisp up beautifully.

Seasoning the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick. Rub half of the prepared spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, coating them evenly on all sides. Reserve the remaining half of the spice rub for later.

Wrapping the Chicken

Take two slices of bacon for each chicken breast. Starting at one end, wrap the bacon slices around the chicken, slightly overlapping each piece to cover the entire surface. Place the wrapped chicken breasts seam side down in your baking pan or ovenproof skillet. This helps keep the bacon in place as it cooks.

Adding the Final Touch

Sprinkle the remaining brown sugar and spice mixture over the top of the bacon-wrapped chicken. This extra layer of seasoning will caramelize in the oven, creating a deliciously sticky and flavorful crust.

Baking the Bacon Wrapped Chicken

Baking is where the magic happens—your chicken becomes juicy, the bacon turns crisp, and the sweet-spicy rub caramelizes to perfection. Follow these steps for the best results:

Oven Temperature and Baking Time

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the prepared baking pan or skillet with the bacon-wrapped chicken on the center rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the chicken is cooked through. For best results, baste the chicken once or twice during baking with the pan drippings—this keeps the meat moist and adds extra flavor.

Checking for Doneness

To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The thickest part of the chicken breast should reach 165°F (74°C). If the bacon isn’t as crispy as you’d like, switch your oven to broil and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Resting and Garnishing

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender. Sprinkle the finished dish with chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful garnish.

Serving and Presentation

When it comes to serving Bacon Wrapped Chicken, a little attention to detail can turn this hearty dish into a memorable meal. Here are some tips to make your presentation shine:

Suggested Sides and Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken for a burst of color and freshness.
• Pan Drippings: Spoon some of the sweet, smoky pan drippings over each chicken breast for extra flavor.
• Side Dishes: Pair your bacon wrapped chicken with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Plating Tips

Slice the chicken breasts on a slight diagonal for an elegant presentation, revealing the juicy interior and the beautiful bacon wrapping. Arrange on a platter or individual plates, and drizzle with any remaining pan juices.

Storage Instructions

Bacon Wrapped Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be just as delicious with proper storage.

How to Keep Bacon Wrapped Chicken Fresh

Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Freezing Bacon Wrapped Chicken

For longer storage, wrap each cooked chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Mastering Bacon Wrapped Chicken is a surefire way to impress family and friends with minimal effort. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a sweet-smoky spice rub creates a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.

With easy preparation, simple storage, and endless serving possibilities, this recipe is a must-have for any home cook. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the irresistible flavors of homemade Bacon Wrapped Chicken!