This Maple Garlic Bacon Chicken is a winner for quick and tasty dinners! Juicy chicken is wrapped in crispy bacon, all glazed with a sweet and savory maple garlic sauce. Yum!
Who doesn’t love crispy bacon? Plus, this dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy nights. I can’t help but make extra just to savor the leftovers! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is great for this dish due to its quick cooking time. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even use tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Bacon: Regular bacon adds flavor and crispiness, but turkey bacon or a vegan bacon alternative works well too if you’re keeping it healthier or plant-based. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives that lovely sweetness. If you don’t have it, honey or agave syrup can be good substitutes, although they will slightly change the flavor profile.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tang. Yellow mustard or whole grain mustard can replace Dijon, depending on your taste preference.
How Do I Get the Bacon Extra Crispy on the Chicken?
To achieve crispy bacon, it’s essential to sear it properly before baking. Start by cooking the bacon-wrapped chicken in a hot skillet. Here’s how:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken; this helps render the fat from the bacon.
- Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until it’s golden brown and slightly crispy. It’ll finish cooking in the oven, but this step gives it a head start!
- Use an oven-safe skillet to transfer directly from stovetop to oven, keeping all that deliciousness in one pan.
Following these tips should help you enjoy perfectly cooked bacon on your chicken every time!
Maple Garlic Bacon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of bacon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes total cooking time. You’ll have a delicious dinner ready in about 40 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying option for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken breasts lightly with salt and black pepper. This small step adds a nice flavor base to your chicken.
2. Make the Maple Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and olive oil until well combined. Remember to set aside half of this sauce for later—this will be your glaze!
3. Wrap the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and wrap it with 2 slices of bacon, using toothpicks to secure them if needed. This bacon will crisp up beautifully while the chicken cooks!
4. Sear the Chicken:
Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the bacon-wrapped chicken and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, just until the bacon starts to get crispy. This step brings out wonderful flavors and helps the bacon hold its shape.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pour the reserved maple garlic sauce over the chicken. Then, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the bacon is beautifully crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes to lock in those juices. Finally, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this flavorful and easy-to-make meal!
Your Maple Garlic Bacon Chicken is now ready to impress at dinner time. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal!
FAQ for Maple Garlic Bacon Chicken
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
If you’re looking to cut down on calories, consider using turkey bacon or wrapping the chicken with a slice of low-fat cheese instead of bacon. You can also reduce the amount of maple syrup for less sweetness without sacrificing flavor!
What Should I Serve This With?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up that delicious maple garlic sauce.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the chicken and wrap it with bacon, then refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
