Indulge in the perfect blend of smoky, savory bacon and tender, juicy chicken with this easy-to-make recipe for bacon-wrapped chicken. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or serving it at a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its irresistible flavor and simple yet impressive presentation. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, this recipe is both a crowd-pleaser and a comfort food favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of bacon (preferably thick-cut for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for stuffing)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. - Prepare the Chicken
If you want to stuff the chicken, create a small pocket by slicing each chicken breast horizontally, but not all the way through. You can stuff the chicken with cheese or any preferred filling. If you’re not stuffing, simply season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and thyme. - Wrap the Chicken
Lay a slice of bacon on a flat surface. Place one seasoned chicken breast in the center and wrap it with two slices of bacon, securing the bacon around the chicken. Repeat this process with the remaining chicken breasts. - Sear the Bacon (Optional)
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts in the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until the bacon begins to crisp up. This step adds extra flavor and texture, but it’s optional if you prefer to cook everything in the oven. - Bake the Chicken
If you seared the chicken, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. If not, place the bacon-wrapped chicken directly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the bacon is crispy and golden brown. - Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Tips:
- For extra crispy bacon, broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking.
- You can add other spices like chili powder or Italian seasoning for a more personalized flavor.
- Consider stuffing the chicken with spinach and cheese for a creamy filling.
This bacon-wrapped chicken recipe combines the best of both worlds—tender chicken and crispy bacon—making it the perfect dish to enjoy any night of the week.