Ah, the delightful combination of chicken and bacon! It’s a match made in culinary heaven that never fails to excite the taste buds. Picture this: a sizzling summer evening with friends gathered around the grill. You’ve got smoky bacon-wrapped chicken breasts sizzling away, surrounded by colorful sides like a fresh garden salad and buttery corn on the cob. As the sun sets, that savory scent wafts through the air, drawing everyone to the table. Trust me, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser and the highlight of any gathering.
Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for baked chicken breasts wrapped in bacon. This dish is not only simple to prepare, but it also packs a punch of flavor, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. The chicken turns out juicy and tender, while the bacon adds a wonderful crunch and depth of flavor. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re in for a treat!
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What is baked chicken breast wrapped in bacon?
Baked chicken breasts wrapped in bacon marries the lean, mild flavor of chicken with the salty, smoky taste of cured pork. The sweetness of the brown sugar and earthy spices caramelize during baking, creating a delightful contrast to the savory bacon. This dish is a modern twist on classic comfort food, perfect for those craving a hearty meal without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love this baked chicken breast wrapped in bacon?
This recipe stands out for several reasons. The juicy chicken wrapped in crispy bacon creates a satisfying texture that leaves you wanting more. It’s incredibly versatile with a handful of pantry staples, making it easy to whip up on busy evenings. Plus, whether you’re serving it at a casual get-together or a festive dinner, this dish is bound to impress. Pair it with sides of your choice, and you have a complete meal that feels indulgent without sacrificing health.
The Ingredients You Will Need To Make This Dish
To create this irresistible dish, gather the following ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 strips of bacon (avoid thick cut for even cooking)
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (new addition for extra flavor)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
How to make baked chicken breast wrapped in bacon?
Now that we have our ingredients, it’s time to dive into making this dish. Follow the steps carefully, and soon you’ll be savoring the delicious results.
Step-by-step directions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and helps the bacon crisp as it bakes. A well-heated oven is crucial for achieving that perfect texture.
Step 2: Mix Your Spice Blend
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt. This blend is where all the flavors start to develop, so give it a good mix!
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Take each chicken breast and generously rub half of the spice mixture all over. Make sure to cover every inch by using your hands. This step is important because it infuses flavor throughout the chicken.
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
Take two strips of bacon and carefully wrap each chicken breast with them. Secure the ends underneath the chicken breast to hold them in place. This not only keeps the bacon from unraveling but also traps the juices in, creating a tender piece of chicken.
Step 5: Place in a Baking Dish
Arrange the wrapped chicken breasts, seam side down, into a baking pan or ovenproof skillet. This position prevents any of the bacon from slipping off during cooking.
Step 6: Add the Remaining Spice Mix
Sprinkle the remaining spice mixture over the top of the chicken. This will caramelize beautifully in the oven and form a delicious glaze, providing even more flavor.
Step 7: Bake
Put the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the bacon to crisp up while ensuring the chicken is cooked through. I recommend using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure food safety.
Step 8: Broil for Extra Crispiness
If you desire extra crispy bacon (and who wouldn’t?), switch to the broil setting for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end. Just keep an eye on it; things can go from crispy to charred quickly.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken before serving for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy!
Notes
– Use regular bacon instead of thick cuts for even cooking and crispiness.
– Marinate the chicken in the spice mix for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
– Try adding crumbled feta or mozzarella inside the chicken for an extra flavor boost.
– If you prefer spice, consider adding a dash of cayenne or chili powder to the seasonings.
– Always allow the chicken to rest for about five minutes before slicing to retain the juices.
Storage Tips
To store your leftover bacon-wrapped chicken breast, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, feel free to freeze it. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Each serving of this dish contains approximately 320 calories. The chicken provides lean protein, while the bacon adds flavor and fat, making it a satisfying meal. Pair it with some veggies or a side salad to round out your meal without straying from healthy eating.
Serving Suggestions
Here are five fantastic accompaniments that will complement your bacon-wrapped chicken:
– Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, these mashed potatoes make a perfect base for the flavorful chicken.
– Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans lightly seasoned with lemon juice make a refreshing side.
– Quinoa Salad: A light, healthy salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon balances the richness of the chicken.
– Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs nicely with the savory flavors and crunchy texture of the chicken.
– Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn cooked on the grill adds a summer touch to your plate.
What other substitutes can I use in baked chicken breast wrapped in bacon?
If you’d like to switch things up, consider these alternatives:
– Turkey Bacon: For a leaner option, swap out regular bacon for turkey bacon. Just be aware it may not crisp up as much.
– Pork Tenderloin: If you prefer pork, thinly sliced pork tenderloin can substitute the chicken for a different flavor profile.
– Crushed Nuts: Instead of bacon, consider a coating of crushed almonds or walnuts for a crunchy exterior that’s still rich in flavor.
– Low-sodium Seasonings: If you need to cut back on sodium, use low-sodium bacon and seasonings for a healthier take.
– Herbed Chicken: Marinate the chicken in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and skip the bacon entirely for a lighter dish.
Baked Chicken Breast Wrapped In Bacon
Equipment
- Oven
- baking pan or ovenproof skillet
- Small bowl
- Tongs
Ingredients
- To create this irresistible dish gather the following ingredients:
- – 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- – 8 strips of bacon avoid thick cut for even cooking
- – 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- – 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- – 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning new addition for extra flavor
- – 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- – 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- – 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- – 1/2 teaspoon salt
- – 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and helps the bacon crisp as it bakes. A well-heated oven is crucial for achieving that perfect texture.
Step 2: Mix Your Spice Blend
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt. This blend is where all the flavors start to develop, so give it a good mix!
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
- Take each chicken breast and generously rub half of the spice mixture all over. Make sure to cover every inch by using your hands. This step is important because it infuses flavor throughout the chicken.
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
- Take two strips of bacon and carefully wrap each chicken breast with them. Secure the ends underneath the chicken breast to hold them in place. This not only keeps the bacon from unraveling but also traps the juices in, creating a tender piece of chicken.
Step 5: Place in a Baking Dish
- Arrange the wrapped chicken breasts, seam side down, into a baking pan or ovenproof skillet. This position prevents any of the bacon from slipping off during cooking.
Step 6: Add the Remaining Spice Mix
- Sprinkle the remaining spice mixture over the top of the chicken. This will caramelize beautifully in the oven and form a delicious glaze, providing even more flavor.
Step 7: Bake
- Put the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the bacon to crisp up while ensuring the chicken is cooked through. I recommend using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure food safety.
Step 8: Broil for Extra Crispiness
- If you desire extra crispy bacon (and who wouldn’t?), switch to the broil setting for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end. Just keep an eye on it; things can go from crispy to charred quickly.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
- Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken before serving for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but you must thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with it?
This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides like salads, rice dishes, or roasted vegetables. Get creative with your favorites!
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and wrap it in bacon ahead of time, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This is a great time-saver for busy evenings.
How do I know when it’s done cooking?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of it.
Can I grill this instead?
Yes! You can grill the chicken over medium heat, turning frequently until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
Conclusion
Baked chicken breast wrapped in bacon is a comforting dish that brings a delightful crunch and rich flavor. This recipe is easy to follow and makes for an impressive meal, whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself. With its versatile ingredients and simple preparation, this dish is bound to become a new family favorite. Grab your apron, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
