When it comes to the perfect dinner dish that’s easy, juicy, and full of flavor, chicken wrapped in bacon tops the list. It combines the lean tenderness of chicken with the rich, smoky crispiness of bacon—a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you’re planning a weeknight meal, a holiday gathering, or a quick appetizer, this dish is always a winner.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the best chicken wrapped in bacon, along with variations, cooking methods, tips, and everything in between. Let’s dig in.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Wrapped in Bacon
- Flavor-packed: Bacon infuses the chicken with savory, smoky goodness as it cooks.
- Juicy and tender: The bacon keeps the chicken moist, preventing it from drying out.
- Simple ingredients: You only need a few pantry staples.
- Versatile: Serve as a main course, party appetizer, or even in sandwiches and wraps.
- Low-carb/keto-friendly: Perfect for high-protein diets.
Ingredients for Chicken Wrapped in Bacon
You can customize this recipe to suit your taste, but here’s a basic version that never fails:
Basic Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 8 slices of bacon (thin-cut preferred for crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or cooking spray
Optional Add-ins:
- Cream cheese or cheddar – for a cheesy filling
- Jalapeño slices – for a kick
- Brown sugar or maple syrup – for a sweet-savory glaze
- Fresh herbs – like rosemary or thyme
How to Make Chicken Wrapped in Bacon (Step-by-Step)
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup, and place a wire rack on top if you want extra crispy bacon.
2. Prepare the Chicken
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- If the breasts are too thick, consider pounding them lightly to an even thickness.
- Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Wrap with Bacon
- Wrap each chicken breast with 2 slices of bacon, slightly overlapping the ends.
- Tuck the ends of the bacon under the chicken to secure it, or use toothpicks if needed.
4. Bake
- Place the bacon-wrapped chicken on the wire rack or directly on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For crispy bacon, broil on high for the last 2–3 minutes—watch closely to avoid burning.
5. Rest and Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Air Fryer Chicken Wrapped in Bacon
Want to speed things up? The air fryer is a great way to cook this dish with crispy results.
Instructions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place bacon-wrapped chicken in a single layer in the basket.
- Cook for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Broil or air fry at 400°F for an extra 2–3 minutes if bacon isn’t crispy enough.
Grilled Chicken Wrapped in Bacon
For that smoky BBQ flavor, try grilling:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Grill chicken over indirect heat for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Finish over direct heat for 1–2 minutes per side to crisp the bacon.
Tip: Precook the bacon slightly in the microwave for 1–2 minutes if you’re grilling. This helps it crisp up faster without overcooking the chicken.
Flavor Variations to Try
1. Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Wrapped in Bacon
- Make a small slit in the chicken and stuff it with cheddar, mozzarella, or cream cheese mixed with herbs.
- Wrap with bacon and bake as usual.
2. Sweet & Savory Glazed Chicken
- Mix 2 tablespoons of brown sugar with a pinch of chili powder and sprinkle it over the bacon before baking.
- You can also brush with maple syrup or honey in the last 10 minutes for a caramelized finish.
3. Spicy Jalapeño Popper Style
- Slice the chicken, stuff with a mixture of cream cheese, diced jalapeños, and shredded cheese.
- Wrap and cook—it’s like a giant jalapeño popper.
What to Serve With Chicken Wrapped in Bacon
Here are some delicious side dishes to round out your meal:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
- Roasted brussels sprouts
- Cauliflower mash (for low-carb)
- Buttery corn on the cob
- Crispy sweet potato fries
- Garden salad with vinaigrette
Tips for Success
- Use thin-cut bacon: It crisps better and wraps more easily.
- Don’t overcook: Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Let it rest: Resting helps redistribute the juices inside the chicken.
- Secure the bacon: Use toothpicks if needed—just remember to remove them before serving!
- Use a rack: If baking, a wire rack allows air to circulate and crisps the bacon more evenly.
Storing and Reheating
How to Store:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap each piece tightly in foil or plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat:
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 375°F for 4–6 minutes.
- Microwave: Use in a pinch, but the bacon may lose crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Adjust the cooking time as they may cook slightly faster.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Wrap the chicken in bacon, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I keep the bacon crispy?
- Use a wire rack.
- Broil for a few minutes at the end.
- Avoid thick-cut bacon unless precooked.
Is this recipe keto or low-carb?
Yes! With no breading and low-carb sides, it fits perfectly into keto and low-carb diets.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason why chicken wrapped in bacon has become a go-to dish for home cooks everywhere. It’s simple to make, packs in bold flavor, and delivers a crowd-pleasing meal every time. With easy ingredient swaps and endless variations, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious.
So next time you’re stuck wondering what to make for dinner—grab some chicken, bacon, and your favorite seasonings and get wrapping!