How To Make Bacon Wrapped Chicken – The Easy Way!

Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Bacon-wrapped chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines the crispy, salty crunch of bacon with the juicy, tender flavor of chicken. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, from casual dinners to special celebrations. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unveil the secrets of how to bacon wrapped chicken like a pro.

Choosing the Right Chicken

The foundation of a great bacon-wrapped chicken dish lies in selecting the right chicken. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for optimal results. Boneless breasts provide a leaner option, while thighs offer more flavor and juiciness.

Selecting the Best Bacon

When it comes to bacon, quality matters. Choose thick-cut bacon with a good balance of fat and meat. Avoid bacon that’s too thin or overly crispy, as it may burn or become brittle during cooking.

Seasoning the Chicken

Before wrapping the chicken in bacon, season it generously with your favorite spices. Salt and pepper are essential, but feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices such as paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder.

Wrapping the Chicken

Now comes the fun part! Lay out a piece of bacon on a cutting board and place a seasoned chicken breast or thigh in the center. Roll up the bacon tightly, ensuring that the chicken is completely covered. Secure the bacon with toothpicks or skewers.

Cooking the Chicken

There are several ways to cook bacon-wrapped chicken:

• Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the wrapped chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
• Grilling: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the wrapped chicken for 10-15 minutes per side, or until the bacon is cooked through and the chicken is no longer pink.
• Pan-Frying: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Cook the wrapped chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.

Saucing the Chicken (Optional)

If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, brush the bacon-wrapped chicken with your favorite sauce before cooking. BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or teriyaki sauce are all excellent options.

Resting the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.

Serving Suggestions

Bacon-wrapped chicken can be served on its own or paired with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include:

• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• Rice
• Salads

Wrapping Up: A Flavorful Finish

Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of how to bacon wrapped chicken. This versatile dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Experiment with different seasonings, sauces, and cooking methods to create your own unique variations. Enjoy this culinary masterpiece and savor every bite!

FAQ

Q: Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?
A: Yes, you can use turkey bacon, but it may not be as crispy or flavorful as pork bacon.

Q: Can I cook bacon-wrapped chicken from frozen?
A: Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time by 50-75%.

Q: How do I store leftover bacon-wrapped chicken?
A: Store leftover bacon-wrapped chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Q: Can I make bacon-wrapped chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can wrap the chicken in bacon and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q: What are some other ways to cook bacon-wrapped chicken?
A: You can also cook bacon-wrapped chicken in the air fryer or on a smoker.