If there’s one dish that never fails to impress at any gathering, it’s bacon-wrapped chicken. Pair it with a fresh garden salad, buttery mashed potatoes, or even a light pasta dish, and you’ve got a meal that turns heads and tantalizes taste buds. I remember the first time I made this for a dinner party—everyone was raving. Seriously, it’s one of those recipes that makes you look like a culinary genius without requiring years of training. So let’s dive into this amazing bacon-wrapped chicken, a surefire hit that you and your loved ones will adore.
Bacon-wrapped chicken is the kind of comfort food that feels indulgent while still being easy to whip up any night of the week. Whether it’s a Friday family dinner, a Sunday roast, or even meal prep for a busy week, this dish can fit into your schedule seamlessly. The chicken comes out juicy and tender, while the bacon adds that crispy, smoky layer that wraps everything together. It’s the balance of flavors that makes this dish so delightful.
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What is Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Oven?
Simply put, bacon-wrapped chicken is a dish where succulent chicken breasts are enveloped in savory bacon and baked to perfection. The bacon renders its fat, which keeps the chicken moist and adds a rich depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. This is a fantastic option for those who enjoy savory dishes without excessive prep time.
Why This Recipe Works?
This recipe harmonizes several elements that enhance the chicken exquisitely. The sweetness of brown sugar creates a caramelized crust on the bacon while the smoked paprika lends a beautiful, warm depth of flavor. The garlic and onion powders? They boost the taste exponentially, adding layers of savory goodness. Altogether, these ingredients ensure that each bite is bursting with flavor while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish?
Here’s the ingredient list to create your mouthwatering bacon-wrapped chicken. I’ve made a few tweaks for added flavor:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 slices of regular-cut bacon (avoid the thick cut)
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard (adds a nice tangy note)
– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for a subtle kick)
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Oven?
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s get cooking! This recipe is quite straightforward, and I’ll walk you through every step, so you feel confident in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Getting it hot before adding your chicken helps achieve that perfect bacon crispiness while ensuring the chicken cooks evenly throughout.
Step 2: Mix the Spice Blend
In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard. This spice blend will be the heart of your flavor profile. Mix until everything is well blended and set it aside.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Take your chicken breasts and rub half of the prepared spice mixture all over them. Make sure every inch is covered to maximize flavor. If you have time, let this sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the spices to penetrate the chicken.
Step 4: Wrap the Chicken
Now it’s time to wrap! Each chicken breast should be snugly encased in about two slices of bacon. The bacon helps keep the chicken moist and gives it that coveted crispy exterior. Place each wrapped chicken breast, seam side down, into a baking pan or an ovenproof skillet.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Remaining Spice Mixture
Take the rest of your spice blend and sprinkle it generously over the top of each chicken breast. This addition will help caramelize the bacon and add an extra layer of flavor as it cooks.
Step 6: Bake and Baste
Put the pan in your preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. As the chicken bakes, baste the chicken occasionally with the drippings from the pan to keep it juicy.
Step 7: Broil for Extra Crispiness
If you’re someone who loves a super crispy bacon finish, switch the oven to broil mode during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it; it can go from perfectly crispy to burnt in seconds.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle the chicken with freshly chopped parsley for that touch of color and freshness. Now it’s time to dig in!
Tips
– Choose Regular Cut Bacon: Sticking to regular-cut bacon ensures that the chicken cooks evenly without the bacon being too thick.
– Marinate if Possible: Allowing the chicken to sit in the spice mix for a while enhances the flavor.
– Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
– Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give each chicken piece some room in the pan to allow for proper heat circulation.
– Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to swap some spices to make it your own; cumin or chili powder can add an exciting twist!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which, let’s be honest, isn’t very likely), allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through as needed.
Nutrition Information
One serving of bacon-wrapped chicken (1 chicken breast) contains approximately 320 calories, 22g of protein, and 24g of fat. While it’s not a low-calorie food, the combination of proteins and healthy fats can make it a satisfying meal option.
How Would I Recommend Serving Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Oven?
Looking to elevate your meal? Here are some suggestions:
– With a Side Salad:A fresh garden salad adds a crunchy, refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
– Garlic Mashed Potatoes:Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes create a perfect comfort food pairing.
– Roasted Veggies: Roast a mix of seasonal veggies for a colorful and nutrient-dense side.
– Quinoa or Rice Pilaf:Fluffy quinoa or rice with herbs can soak up the juices beautifully.
– Pasta Salad: A refreshing cold pasta salad on the side adds great balance.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if Not Available?
If you find yourself lacking some of the main ingredients, don’t worry! Here are some alternatives:
– Chicken Thighs:Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be a fantastic substitute for a juicier result.
– Turkey Bacon:Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative that still offers delicious flavor.
– Coconut Sugar: If brown sugar is unavailable, coconut sugar can provide a similar sweetness.
– Paprika: Smoked paprika can be swapped with regular paprika or even some cayenne for heat.
– Fresh Herbs: If parsley isn’t your thing, try fresh cilantro or basil for a unique twist.
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Oven
Equipment
- Baking pan
- Small bowl
- Oven
Ingredients
- – 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- – 8 slices of regular-cut bacon avoid the thick cut
- – 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- – 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika
- – 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- – 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
- – 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- – 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- – 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley chopped
- – 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard adds a nice tangy note
- – 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Getting it hot before adding your chicken helps achieve that perfect bacon crispiness while ensuring the chicken cooks evenly throughout.
Step 2: Mix the Spice Blend
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard. This spice blend will be the heart of your flavor profile. Mix until everything is well blended and set it aside.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
- Take your chicken breasts and rub half of the prepared spice mixture all over them. Make sure every inch is covered to maximize flavor. If you have time, let this sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the spices to penetrate the chicken.
Step 4: Wrap the Chicken
- Now it’s time to wrap! Each chicken breast should be snugly encased in about two slices of bacon. The bacon helps keep the chicken moist and gives it that coveted crispy exterior. Place each wrapped chicken breast, seam side down, into a baking pan or an ovenproof skillet.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Remaining Spice Mixture
- Take the rest of your spice blend and sprinkle it generously over the top of each chicken breast. This addition will help caramelize the bacon and add an extra layer of flavor as it cooks.
Step 6: Bake and Baste
- Put the pan in your preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. As the chicken bakes, baste the chicken occasionally with the drippings from the pan to keep it juicy.
Step 7: Broil for Extra Crispiness
- If you’re someone who loves a super crispy bacon finish, switch the oven to broil mode during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it; it can go from perfectly crispy to burnt in seconds.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle the chicken with freshly chopped parsley for that touch of color and freshness. Now it’s time to dig in!
Notes
Nutrition
FAQs
1. Can I freeze bacon-wrapped chicken?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s cooked completely and cooled down before freezing it in an airtight container. It can be reheated in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use different meats instead of chicken?
Sure! Pork tenderloin or turkey can work well with this bacon-wrapping method, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. What veggies can I serve alongside it?
Some great options include asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts that complement the dish’s savory flavors.
4. How can I make it spicier?
For a robust kick, consider adding chili powder or jalapeños to the spice mix or serving it with a spicy sauce.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! If you ensure that your seasoning and bacon are gluten-free, this dish is entirely suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
Bacon-wrapped chicken is more than just a dish; it’s a go-to for any occasion that brings smiles and satisfies hungry appetites. With its perfect combination of flavors and easy preparation, this recipe will surely become a beloved part of your cooking repertoire. So, roll up those sleeves and get cooking. Trust me; you won’t regret trying this incredible dish! Whether for a simple dinner or a festive gathering, your taste buds will thank you.
