Ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8-12 slices bacon (not thick-cut)
- 1 ½ tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- Chopped fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients: Remove chicken and bacon from the fridge 30-40 minutes before starting.
- Create the Dry Rub: In a medium bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Preheat and Setup: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place an oven-safe metal rack on top.
- Season the Chicken: Pat chicken dry, sprinkle each breast with 1 teaspoon of the dry rub, and rub it over both sides. Wrap each chicken breast with 2-3 slices of bacon, placing them seam side down on the metal rack.
- Final Seasoning and Baking: Sprinkle the remaining seasoning over the bacon-wrapped chicken. Bake for 25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes for extra crispy bacon, watching closely.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these succulent bacon-wrapped chicken breasts with your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad make delightful companions to this savory dish.
Tips:
- Experiment with different herbs for a personalized touch.
- Ensure the bacon is fully cooked for that perfect crunch.
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
FAQs:
Q1: Can I use thick-cut bacon?
A1: It’s recommended to use regular bacon for optimal cooking and flavor balance.
Q2: Can I prepare the dry rub in advance?
A2: Absolutely! Mix the dry rub and store it in an airtight container for future use.
Q3: Can I grill instead of baking?
A3: Yes, you can grill the bacon-wrapped chicken over medium heat until fully cooked.
Conclusion:
Indulge in the culinary delight of bacon-wrapped chicken that’s both easy to prepare and immensely satisfying. With the perfect blend of spices and the irresistible allure of crispy bacon, this recipe is a surefire way to elevate your dinner experience. Enjoy every savory bite!