Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe

Bacon, brown sugar, and garlic—three ingredients that, when combined, create a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist. This Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken recipe marries the smokiness of bacon with the sweetness of brown sugar and the pungency of garlic, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and gourmet. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

The Appeal of the Ingredients

1. Bacon: The crispy, salty goodness of bacon enhances nearly any dish. It adds a rich flavor profile and a satisfying crunch that makes meals more enjoyable. The fat rendered from the bacon not only adds depth to the dish but also helps keep the chicken juicy and tender.
2. Brown Sugar: Brown sugar provides a warm sweetness that balances out savory flavors beautifully. When cooked, it caramelizes, creating a rich glaze that coats the chicken perfectly. This sweetness complements the salty bacon and the sharpness of garlic, making each bite a delightful experience.
3. Garlic: Garlic is a staple in many cuisines and adds a robust flavor that can elevate any dish. Its aromatic qualities enhance the overall taste, bringing all the components together harmoniously. In this recipe, garlic is roasted alongside the chicken, infusing it with a fragrant essence that lingers with every bite.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• A large oven-safe skillet or cast iron skillet
• A mixing bowl
• A whisk
• Tongs
• A meat thermometer
• A cutting board and knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the chicken to cook evenly while ensuring the bacon crisps up nicely without burning.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken:
   • Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes a nice sear.
   • Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and pepper. This basic seasoning is essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
2. Wrap with Bacon:
   • Take the bacon slices and wrap each chicken breast with two slices of bacon, covering the chicken entirely. The bacon not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken moist during cooking.

Step 3: Make the Brown Sugar Garlic Glaze

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, Dijon mustard (if using), smoked paprika, and black pepper. Whisk until the brown sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined. The glaze should be thick and sticky.
2. Adjust to Taste:
   • Taste the glaze and adjust the ingredients as needed. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add more brown sugar. For a saltier flavor, add a splash more soy sauce.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat the Skillet:
   • In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
2. Sear the Bacon-Wrapped Chicken:
   • Carefully add the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts to the skillet, seam side down. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. Use tongs to flip the chicken gently.

Step 5: Add the Glaze

1. Pour the Glaze:
   • Once the chicken is seared, pour the brown sugar garlic glaze over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are coated evenly.
2. Add Extra Garlic (Optional):
   • For an extra boost of garlic flavor, consider adding whole cloves of garlic around the chicken in the skillet.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken

1. Transfer to Oven:
   • Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The glaze will caramelize and form a sticky coating on the chicken.
2. Baste (Optional):
   • If desired, halfway through baking, use a spoon to baste the chicken with the glaze in the skillet. This adds more flavor and ensures an even coating.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish:
   • Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
2. Serving Suggestions:
   • Serve the bacon brown sugar garlic chicken with your favorite side dishes. Consider pairing it with:
     • Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts roasted in the oven complement the sweet and savory chicken.
     • Rice or Quinoa: A bed of fluffy rice or quinoa soaks up the delicious glaze and balances the richness of the chicken.
     • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit, especially when topped with some of the glaze.
     • Salad: A fresh green salad adds a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

Step 8: Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth to help steam and keep it moist.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality bacon can significantly enhance the flavor of the dish. Avoid pre-packaged garlic or low-quality bacon if possible.
2. Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking is crucial for achieving moist, tender meat. This step helps prevent the juices from running out when you cut into it.
3. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust the flavor profile of the glaze by adding spices like cayenne pepper for heat or ginger for warmth. You can also try using honey or maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a different sweetness.
4. Make It Ahead: For busy weeknights, consider prepping the chicken and the glaze ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken in the glaze for a few hours or overnight for even more flavor. Simply bake it when you’re ready to eat.

Pairing Beverages

Choosing the right beverage can elevate your meal. Here are some great pairings:

• White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay pairs well with the savory and sweet flavors of the chicken.
• Red Wine: If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir complements the dish beautifully without overpowering it.
• Craft Beer: A pale ale or amber beer with a hint of maltiness balances the sweetness of the glaze.
• Mocktails: For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, try serving sparkling water with lime or a fruit-infused iced tea.

Conclusion

This Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious, hearty meal. With its crispy bacon, caramelized brown sugar glaze, and fragrant garlic, it is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Whether you are cooking for a special occasion or just a regular weeknight dinner, this dish will impress and satisfy. Enjoy the process of cooking and the delightful flavors that emerge from this recipe. Bon appétit!

Yield: 4

Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe

Print

Bacon, brown sugar, and garlic—three ingredients that, when combined, create a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist. This Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken recipe marries the smokiness of bacon with the sweetness of brown sugar and the pungency of garlic, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and gourmet. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
   
3. Cook the Bacon:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels, leaving about 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the skillet.
   
4. Make the Glaze:
   In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
   Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture is bubbly and slightly thickened.
   
5. Combine Chicken and Bacon:
   In a large baking dish, arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer. Pour the brown sugar garlic glaze over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
   Sprinkle the cooked bacon on top of the chicken.
   
6. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
   
7. Serve:
   Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Serving Suggestions: Serve the chicken with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables to soak up the delicious glaze.

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Add a Twist: For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to the glaze for a tangy kick.