Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly cooked bacon wrapped chicken breast, where the smoky, crispy layers of bacon embrace succulent chicken, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that dance on your palate. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses and promising an unforgettable culinary experience that’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner.
This dish holds a special place in my heart, often gracing our table during festive gatherings and casual weeknight dinners alike. I can still recall the laughter and chatter as we eagerly anticipated that first bite, the savory scent pulling everyone into the kitchen like moths to a flame. Trust me when I say that once you dive into this flavor-packed delight, you’ll be counting down the days until you can savor it again.
Why Will You Keep Making bacon wrapped chicken breast?
Juicy chicken breasts perfectly wrapped in crispy bacon create a mouthwatering combination that’s hard to resist.
- Quick prep: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner ready in no time.
- Flavor explosion: The blend of garlic powder, paprika, and spices elevates the taste profile with every bite.
- Crowd-pleaser: This dish is sure to impress your family and friends, making it ideal for gatherings.
- Versatile: Serve it with veggies, on a salad, or alongside your favorite sides for endless meal possibilities.
Once you try this easy recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!
bacon wrapped chicken breast Ingredients
- For the Chicken
- 4 pieces chicken breasts (boneless and skinless) – Choose high-quality chicken for a juicy and tender bite in your bacon wrapped chicken breast.
- For the Bacon
- 8 slices bacon (thick cut) – Thick-cut bacon provides a crispy texture and rich flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
- For Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste) – Salt enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and bacon, making every bite savory.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (to taste) – Freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle heat that balances the richness of the bacon.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Garlic powder brings an aromatic depth, complementing the smoky bacon perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Paprika adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, elevating your bacon wrapped chicken breast to new heights.
How to Make bacon wrapped chicken breast
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving that crispy bacon exterior while ensuring juicy chicken inside.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. A good seasoning blend elevates the flavors and makes every bite delightful.
3. Wrap each chicken breast with two slices of thick-cut bacon, securing with toothpicks if necessary. This helps keep the bacon in place as it crisps up during baking.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. The foil makes cleanup easier while allowing those delicious bacon drippings to flavor the chicken.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You want that golden-brown bacon to be crispy and the chicken perfectly cooked.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Resting allows juices to redistribute for a tender bite.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pro Tips for bacon wrapped chicken breast
- Choose Quality Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for a crispy texture that holds up while baking, ensuring your bacon wrapped chicken breast is flavorful and satisfying.
- Season Generously: Don't skimp on the spices! Proper seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the chicken, making every bite of your bacon wrapped chicken breast truly delicious.
- Secure the Wrap: If needed, use toothpicks to secure the bacon around the chicken. This prevents it from unraveling during cooking, ensuring a perfect presentation.
- Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Undercooked chicken can ruin your meal and cause food safety issues.
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps retain juices, resulting in a tender and juicy bacon wrapped chicken breast.
How to Store and Freeze bacon wrapped chicken breast
- Fridge: Store leftover bacon wrapped chicken breast in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Freezer: Wrap individual pieces of bacon wrapped chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place thawed bacon wrapped chicken breast in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the bacon remains crispy.
- Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked bacon wrapped chicken breast at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
bacon wrapped chicken breast Your Way
Feel free to get creative and personalize this dish to suit your taste buds!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra layer of heat. This twist brings a delightful warmth that complements the savory bacon perfectly. Just be cautious with the amount—start small and adjust to your spice preference.
- Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme on the chicken before wrapping it in bacon. This adds a fragrant, earthy note that elevates the dish. The combination of crispy bacon and aromatic herbs creates a beautiful balance of flavors.
- Cheesy Delight: Place a slice of your favorite cheese inside the wrapped chicken before cooking. As it melts, it will create a gooey, savory surprise. Imagine biting into the crispy exterior only to find a rich, cheesy center; it’s pure comfort food bliss!
- Sweet Glaze: Brush the bacon-wrapped breasts with maple syrup or honey for a sweet finish. This adds an enticing contrast to the salty bacon. The caramelization during cooking enhances both flavor and texture, making each bite irresistible.
- Stuffed Surprise: Fill the chicken with spinach and cream cheese before wrapping it in bacon. This not only adds creaminess but also some green goodness! It’s like unwrapping a present at dinner—everyone will love discovering what’s inside.
- Nutty Crunch: Coat the outside of the bacon with crushed nuts like pecans or almonds for added texture. This gives each bite a satisfying crunch while enhancing the overall flavor profile. The nuttiness pairs beautifully with both chicken and bacon, creating a symphony of taste.
- Zesty Citrus: Marinate the chicken in lemon juice and zest before wrapping it in bacon for a bright, refreshing twist. The acidity cuts through the richness of the dish, adding balance and brightness. Each bite bursts with flavor that dances on your palate!
Make Ahead Options
If you're looking to streamline your dinner routine, this bacon wrapped chicken breast recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to really penetrate the meat. Additionally, wrapping each chicken breast with bacon can be done ahead of time; just secure them with toothpicks if necessary and store them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy this savory dish, simply place the prepped bacon-wrapped chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked. This way, you save precious time while still serving up a delicious family favorite!
bacon wrapped chicken breast Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken breasts should I use for this recipe?
For the best results, use boneless and skinless chicken breasts. They cook evenly and are easy to wrap in bacon, ensuring that each bite is juicy and flavorful. You can also opt for organic or free-range chicken for enhanced taste and quality.
Can I use a different type of bacon?
While thick-cut bacon is recommended for its crispiness and flavor, you can experiment with turkey bacon or even prosciutto if you're looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check the chicken's internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
How should I store leftover bacon-wrapped chicken breasts?
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness—just pop them back in at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Can I freeze bacon-wrapped chicken breasts?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each cooked piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.
What sides pair well with bacon-wrapped chicken breast?
This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. For a comforting touch, serve with creamy garlic mashed potatoes or some buttery corn on the cob for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
What if my bacon isn’t crispy after baking?
If your bacon isn't as crispy as you'd like after baking for 25-30 minutes, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning—broilers can be quite powerful!
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breast
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Wrap each chicken breast with two slices of bacon, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
- Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
