Bacon

Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breast

Name: Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 12 slices of thick-cut bacon; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/4 cup chicken broth

By Kira Velasquez · June 19, 2026 · Bacon

Prep20 min

Cook30 min

Total50 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I made bacon wrapped chicken breast for my family. The combination of crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and the aroma of smoked pork was a game-changer for our weekly dinners. As a home cook, I've always been passionate about exploring the world of comfort food, and this recipe is one of my favorites.

What makes this dish special is the simplicity of its ingredients and the technique involved. With just a few key components, you can create a mouthwatering meal that's sure to impress. Whether you're a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game.

The beauty of bacon wrapped chicken breast lies in its versatility. You can serve it as a main course, paired with your favorite sides, or use it as a protein-packed addition to salads and sandwiches. The possibilities are endless, and I'm excited to share my take on this classic recipe with you.

In this article, we'll dive into the world of smoky pork and bacon comfort cooking, exploring the techniques and ingredients that make this dish truly special. From the importance of rendering fat to the art of achieving the perfect crust, we'll cover it all. So, let's get started and uncover the secrets of the perfect bacon wrapped chicken breast.

As we cook our way through this recipe, remember that the key to success lies in the details. From the quality of your ingredients to the technique involved, every step counts. Don't be afraid to experiment and make this dish your own, and most importantly, have fun with it. With a little patience and practice, you'll be creating mouthwatering bacon wrapped chicken breast like a pro in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The combination of bacon and chicken creates a satisfying and filling meal.
The dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
The recipe is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and salads.
The use of smoky pork and bacon adds a rich and comforting element to the dish.
The technique involved is simple and easy to master, making it perfect for beginners.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to a great bacon wrapped chicken breast lies in the balance of flavors and textures. By wrapping the chicken in bacon, we're not only adding a smoky, savory element but also creating a protective barrier that helps retain moisture. This technique, combined with the right cooking method, results in a dish that's both juicy and crispy.

Another crucial aspect of this recipe is the importance of heat control. By starting with a moderate heat and finishing with a high heat, we're able to render the fat from the bacon and create a crispy crust. This technique is essential for achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Finally, the use of aromatics and spices plays a significant role in elevating the flavor of the dish. By adding a blend of herbs and spices to the chicken and bacon, we're creating a depth of flavor that complements the smokiness of the pork. This balance of flavors is what sets this recipe apart and makes it a true comfort food classic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making bacon wrapped chicken breast, the quality of your ingredients is crucial. Look for thick-cut bacon and fresh, boneless chicken breasts. Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of bacon and seasonings to find the combination that works best for you.

In addition to the chicken and bacon, you'll need a few aromatics and spices to add depth to the dish. These ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets and can be adjusted to suit your personal taste preferences.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breastsLook for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts with a good balance of white and dark meat. You can also use organic or free-range chicken for added flavor and nutrition.
12 slices of thick-cut baconThick-cut bacon is essential for this recipe, as it provides a crispy texture and a smoky flavor. You can use any type of bacon you prefer, but thick-cut is recommended.
2 tbsp olive oilOlive oil is used to brush the chicken and bacon, helping to create a crispy texture and add flavor to the dish. You can also use other oils like avocado or grapeseed if you prefer.
1 tsp saltSalt is used to season the chicken and bacon, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients. You can adjust the amount of salt to suit your taste preferences.
1 tsp black pepperBlack pepper is used to add depth and warmth to the dish, complementing the smokiness of the bacon. You can use freshly ground pepper for added flavor.
1 tsp garlic powderGarlic powder is used to add a subtle, savory flavor to the dish. You can also use minced garlic if you prefer a stronger flavor.
1 tsp onion powderOnion powder is used to add a sweet, savory flavor to the dish. You can also use minced onion if you prefer a stronger flavor.
1 tsp paprikaPaprika is used to add a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the dish. You can use sweet or smoked paprika, depending on your preference.
1 tsp dried thymeDried thyme is used to add a herbaceous, slightly minty flavor to the dish. You can also use fresh thyme if you prefer a more subtle flavor.
1/4 cup chicken brothChicken broth is used to add moisture and flavor to the dish. You can use low-sodium broth or make your own broth for added flavor.

Ingredients for Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breast

Equipment You’ll Need

Large oven-safe skilletInstant-read thermometerCutting boardSharp knifeTongs or spatulaOven mitts

How to Make Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breast

1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
Rinse the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme.
3
Wrap each chicken breast with 3 slices of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
5
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
7
While the chicken is resting, add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan and cook until the liquid has reduced by half.
8
Slice the chicken breasts and serve with the reduced broth spooned over the top.
9
Garnish with fresh herbs or chives, if desired.
10
Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Make sure to not overcrowd the skillet, as this can prevent the bacon from cooking evenly.
If using toothpicks to secure the bacon, make sure to remove them before serving.
Let the chicken rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing to ensure the juices redistribute and the meat stays tender.
You can adjust the amount of bacon and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of bacon and seasonings to find the combination that works best for you.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
Let the chicken cool completely before refrigerating or freezing for later use.
Reheat the chicken in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not cooking the chicken to a safe internal temperature, which can lead to foodborne illness.
Overcrowding the skillet, which can prevent the bacon from cooking evenly.
Not letting the chicken rest before slicing, which can cause the meat to become tough and dry.
Not using a meat thermometer, which can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken.
Not adjusting the amount of seasonings to suit your taste preferences, which can result in a bland or overpowering dish.
Not using high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Use different types of bacon, such as applewood-smoked or brown sugar-cured, for a unique flavor.
Add some heat to the dish by sprinkling red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos over the chicken.
Use fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, instead of dried herbs for added flavor.
Add some sweetness to the dish by brushing the chicken with honey or maple syrup during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Use chicken thighs or legs instead of breasts for a more tender and juicy dish.
Add some crunch to the dish by sprinkling chopped nuts or seeds over the chicken before serving.
Use a different type of oil, such as avocado or grapeseed, for a unique flavor.

What to Serve With Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breast

Bacon wrapped chicken breast is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides and salads. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a simple green salad. You can also use the chicken as a protein-packed addition to sandwiches, wraps, and bowls.

For a comforting and satisfying meal, try serving the chicken with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to become a new favorite.

Roasted vegetablesMashed potatoesSimple green saladSandwichesWrapsBowls

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Once the chicken has cooled, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

You can also freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. Simply wrap the cooled chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.

When reheating the chicken, make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety. You can also add a little bit of chicken broth or water to the pan to help keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

In addition to refrigerating and freezing, you can also make the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to cook. Simply prepare the chicken as directed, but do not cook it. Instead, place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and store in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to cook.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of bacon is best for this recipe?

Thick-cut bacon is recommended for this recipe, as it provides a crispy texture and a smoky flavor. You can use any type of bacon you prefer, but thick-cut is recommended.

Can I use chicken thighs or legs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs or legs instead of breasts. Simply adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed to ensure the chicken is cooked through and reaches a safe internal temperature.

How do I ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast or thigh, avoiding any bones or fat.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply prepare the chicken as directed, but do not cook it. Instead, place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and store in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to cook.

How do I store and reheat the chicken?

What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

Some variations you can try with this recipe include using different types of bacon, adding some heat with red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos, or using fresh herbs instead of dried herbs. You can also add some sweetness to the dish by brushing the chicken with honey or maple syrup during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Can I use a different type of oil instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can use a different type of oil instead of olive oil. Some options include avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or coconut oil. Simply substitute the oil in the recipe with your preferred oil and adjust the amount as needed.

How do I prevent the bacon from becoming too crispy or burnt?

To prevent the bacon from becoming too crispy or burnt, make sure to cook it over medium heat and monitor the temperature closely. You can also adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the bacon is crispy but not burnt.

The Full Recipe

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