Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken is the ultimate blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. Tender, juicy chicken wrapped in crispy bacon and coated with caramelized brown sugar makes every bite absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re serving it as a mouthwatering dinner or a crowd-favorite appetizer, this dish is guaranteed to impress!
Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken – Ingredients
Making this irresistible dish is easy with just a few simple ingredients. The perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors comes together in every bite.
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken tenders)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Bacon Wrapping:
- 12 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a hint of spice)
- 2 tablespoons of maple syrup or honey (for extra caramelization)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh chopped parsley (for a pop of color)
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes (for heat)
Ingredient Tips & Substitutions
- Chicken Choice: Chicken tenders cook evenly, but you can also slice chicken breasts into strips.
- Bacon Type: Thick-cut bacon gives a satisfying bite, while thinner bacon crisps up faster.
- Sweetness Balance: Prefer less sweetness? Reduce the brown sugar slightly or swap it for a mix of honey and a touch of Dijon mustard.
Now that you’ve got everything prepped, let’s move on to how to make this delicious dish!
Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken – Step by Step Instructions
Creating Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken is a delightful experience that will have your taste buds dancing. Follow these simple steps to make this delicious dish at home!
1. Prepare the Oven and Ingredients:
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and the bacon crisps perfectly.
- Season the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine your chicken pieces with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until each piece is well coated with the seasonings.
2. Wrap the Chicken in Bacon:
- Wrap Each Piece: Take a slice of thick-cut bacon and wrap it around each seasoned chicken piece. Make sure the bacon overlaps slightly to cover the chicken entirely.
- Secure with Toothpicks (if necessary): If the bacon doesn’t stay in place, use toothpicks to secure the ends.
3. Prepare the Brown Sugar Glaze:
- Mix the Glaze: In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, chili powder (if using), and maple syrup or honey. This mixture will add a sweet and sticky glaze to your chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Roll each bacon-wrapped chicken piece in the brown sugar mixture until fully coated. This step enhances the flavor and helps caramelize the bacon as it cooks.
4. Bake the Chicken:
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top to allow the fat to drain while the chicken cooks.
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the bacon-wrapped chicken pieces on the wire rack, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
- Bake: Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Final Touches and Serving:
- Rest and Garnish: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Remove any toothpicks, if used, and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate your Brown Sugar Wrapped Chicken and enjoy the delicious flavors with family and friends!
Tip: For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but watch closely to avoid burning!
Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken – Additional Tips & Recipe Variations
Making Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken is a delightful experience, and there are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Here are some helpful tips and creative variations to take your dish to the next level!
Tips for Success:
- Choose the Right Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon for a satisfying crunch and better coverage of the chicken. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey bacon can also work, but it may not crisp up as well.
- Marinate for Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix for a few hours or overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeper into the meat.
- Don’t Skip the Glaze: The brown sugar glaze is essential for achieving that perfect caramelization. Feel free to adjust the sweetness level according to your preference by adding more or less brown sugar as desired.
Recipe Variations:
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the brown sugar glaze. This will give your chicken a spicy twist that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs into your chicken seasoning. Try adding rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic touch that elevates the flavor profile.
- Stuffed Chicken: For a heartier version, consider stuffing the chicken with cheese, spinach, or jalapeños before wrapping them in bacon. This adds an exciting surprise to each bite.
- Honey Mustard Glaze: Swap out the brown sugar glaze for a honey mustard mix by combining honey, Dijon mustard, and a bit of brown sugar for a tangy-sweet alternative.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with Sides: Serve your Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
- Make It an Appetizer: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces after cooking and serve them with toothpicks as a fun appetizer for parties or gatherings.
These tips and variations will help you create a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses your guests. Enjoy the process, and don’t hesitate to experiment to find your perfect flavor combination!
Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken – Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
Understanding the nutritional value of your food can enhance your cooking experience and help you make informed decisions. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken and some of its health benefits.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 calories
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
- Fiber: 0-1 gram
- Sugar: 5-8 grams
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Health Benefits:
- High Protein Content: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Incorporating this dish into your meal plan can help support your fitness goals and keep you feeling satisfied.
- Healthy Fats: While bacon adds flavor, it also provides healthy fats. Opting for turkey bacon can reduce saturated fat content while still delivering that smoky flavor.
- Energy Boost: The carbohydrates from the brown sugar provide a quick source of energy, making this dish a good option for pre- or post-workout meals.
Balancing Your Meal:
To make this dish even healthier, consider pairing it with nutrient-dense sides:
- Fresh Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or a mixed green salad to add fiber and essential vitamins.
- Whole Grains: Pair with brown rice, quinoa, or whole-grain bread to increase fiber intake and enhance the overall nutritional profile.
Making it Healthier:
If you’re looking to lighten up this dish while keeping all the delicious flavors, here are a few tips:
- Reduce Sugar: Decrease the amount of brown sugar in the glaze or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- Baking Instead of Frying: Baking rather than frying helps reduce the overall fat content while still allowing the chicken to become crispy.
By being mindful of the nutritional aspects and making simple adjustments, you can enjoy Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken as part of a balanced and healthy diet. Remember, cooking is all about finding a balance between flavor and nutrition, so feel free to adapt this recipe to suit your dietary needs and preferences!
If you like this recipe, you might also like:
Smoked Shotgun Shells
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Air Fryer
FAQ for Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken
Does chicken wrapped in bacon stay pink?
Yes, chicken can appear slightly pink even when fully cooked, especially if it has been wrapped in bacon. The best way to determine doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure that the chicken is safe to eat.
What temperature should Bacon Wrapped Chicken be cooked to?
Bacon wrapped chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures that both the chicken and the bacon are thoroughly cooked and safe to consume.
What is a chicken wrapped in bacon called?
A chicken wrapped in bacon is often referred to as “Bacon-Wrapped Chicken.” It may also be called “Chicken Bacon Roll-Ups” or simply “Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breasts,” depending on the preparation and presentation.
What are the ingredients in chicken bacon?
The primary ingredients in chicken bacon typically include:
- Chicken: Usually chicken breasts or thighs.
- Bacon: Regular or thick-cut bacon for wrapping.
- Seasonings: Common seasonings can include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and brown sugar (for glazes). Other optional ingredients may include herbs or spices for additional flavor.
These answers should provide clarity and enhance your understanding of Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!
Ingredients
-
4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
-
12-18 slices of bacon (1-2 slices per chicken breast)
-
½ cup brown sugar
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon onion powder
-
1 teaspoon paprika
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for greasing)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Wrap each chicken breast with 1-2 slices of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks if necessary.
Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture generously over the bacon-wrapped chicken.
Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the bacon is crispy.
Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and remove toothpicks if used.
Serve it hot and enjoy the sweet and savory goodness!
Notes
Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. This dish also makes a great appetizer for gatherings!
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