Bacon Wrapped Chicken Recipe

Juicy, Flavor-Packed Chicken Wrapped in Crispy, Smoky Bacon — The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser

Few dishes capture the essence of comfort food quite like bacon wrapped chicken. This simple yet indulgent recipe combines two beloved ingredients—tender, juicy chicken and smoky, crispy bacon—into a mouthwatering package that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or a special occasion, bacon wrapped chicken offers a perfect balance of savory flavors and satisfying textures that never fail to impress.

What makes bacon wrapped chicken so irresistible isn’t just the flavor of bacon alone, but the way it elevates the humble chicken breast (or thigh) to a whole new level. The bacon fat renders slowly during cooking, basting the chicken and keeping it incredibly moist while adding a salty, smoky crust. This method not only seals in juices but also creates a beautiful caramelized exterior that’s bursting with flavor. The result is chicken that is tender inside and delightfully crispy outside—a texture contrast that’s pure magic.

This recipe is versatile and adaptable, ideal for both novice cooks and experienced chefs. You can customize the seasoning, add a cheese filling, incorporate herbs and spices, or serve it alongside an array of side dishes. It’s perfect for those low-carb or keto diets, yet universally loved by all palates. Plus, it’s straightforward enough to prepare on a weeknight but elegant enough to serve at your next dinner party.

Whether you’re craving a simple weeknight dinner or planning a memorable meal, bacon wrapped chicken is a recipe that delivers on both flavor and satisfaction. By the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to create bacon wrapped chicken that’s juicy, crispy, and absolutely unforgettable.

Let’s dive into the world of rich, savory comfort with the ultimate bacon wrapped chicken recipe.

Ingredients and Equipment

Ingredients (for reference)

• Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless)

• Bacon strips (thin or thick-cut depending on preference)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Garlic powder, smoked paprika, or other preferred seasonings

• Optional: cream cheese, shredded cheese, herbs, or vegetables for stuffing

• Olive oil or cooking spray

Equipment

• Sharp knife

• Cutting board

• Toothpicks or kitchen twine (to secure bacon)

• Baking sheet or oven-safe skillet

• Aluminum foil or parchment paper (for easier cleanup)

• Meat thermometer

• Tongs or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

• Choose your chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lean meat and easier wrapping. Thighs can also be used for a juicier, more flavorful result. If breasts are very thick, consider butterflying them to even the thickness for consistent cooking.

• Prepare the bacon: Use fresh, high-quality bacon. Thin slices crisp up faster, while thick-cut bacon stays meatier but takes longer to cook. Lay strips out flat on a cutting board.

• Optional stuffing: If you plan to stuff the chicken, prepare fillings such as softened cream cheese mixed with herbs, shredded mozzarella, sautéed spinach, or cooked mushrooms.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning and bacon adhere well.

• Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, or your preferred seasoning blend. Keep it simple or bold depending on your taste.

• If stuffing, slice the chicken horizontally to create a pocket or butterfly the breast. Add your filling evenly inside, then press closed.

Step 3: Wrap the Chicken with Bacon

• Take 2-3 strips of bacon (depending on the size of the chicken piece) and wrap them around the chicken snugly, overlapping slightly. Ensure the bacon covers the chicken entirely or at least most of it.

• Secure the ends with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the bacon in place during cooking.

• Place the bacon-wrapped chicken seam side down on a plate or tray while preparing the rest.

Step 4: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup.

• If you prefer, lightly grease an oven-safe skillet with olive oil to sear the chicken before baking.

Step 5: Optional Pan-Sear for Extra Crispiness

• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.

• Place the bacon-wrapped chicken seam side down and sear for 2-3 minutes until the bacon is browned and crisp.

• Flip and sear the other side for 1-2 minutes.

• This step is optional but helps render fat and gives the bacon an extra crispy texture.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken

• Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet if you pan-seared it in a skillet, or place the wrapped pieces directly on the lined baking sheet if skipping searing.

• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

• To check doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken without touching the bacon or filling.

• If the bacon isn’t as crispy as desired, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

• Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.

• Remove toothpicks or twine carefully.

• Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.