Bacon-Wrapped Chicken: A Delicious Twist on a Classic
Are you looking to elevate your chicken dinner to new heights of flavor? If so, my bacon-wrapped chicken recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends. The combination of juicy chicken and crispy bacon is not just delicious, it's a symphony of textures and flavors that will make this dish a new favorite at your dinner table.
#### Why Wrap Chicken in Bacon?
Wrapping chicken in bacon does more than just add a layer of deliciousness; it also helps to keep the chicken moist and tender by insulating it during cooking. The fat from the bacon bastes the chicken as it cooks, infusing it with flavor and preventing it from drying out. Plus, who can resist the allure of bacon?
#### Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8-12 slices of bacon (depending on size of chicken)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: brown sugar or maple syrup for a sweet twist
#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat your oven** to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Season the chicken:** Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Mix the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts.
3. **Wrap the chicken:** Lay 2-3 slices of bacon side by side on a cutting board, slightly overlapping. Place a chicken breast at one end and roll the bacon tightly around the chicken. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
4. **Bake:** Place the bacon-wrapped chicken in a baking dish or on a rack in a baking sheet. If you want a touch of sweetness, brush a little maple syrup or sprinkle some brown sugar over the bacon. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. **Broil for crispiness:** For extra crispy bacon, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.
6. **Rest and serve:** Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it’s moist and flavorful. Slice and serve hot.
#### Serving Suggestions
Bacon-wrapped chicken pairs wonderfully with almost any side dish. For a healthier meal, serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. If you’re feeling indulgent, creamy mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese make excellent companions.
#### Conclusion
This bacon-wrapped chicken recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. Whether you're cooking a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to delight everyone at the table. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful blend of flavors and textures that bacon and chicken bring to your palate. Happy cooking!