Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 lb bacon, cut in half
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to create a flavorful coating for the chicken.
- Take each cube of chicken and wrap it with half a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
- Dip each bacon-wrapped chicken bite into the brown sugar and spice mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides.
- Place the coated chicken bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, carefully flip each bacon-wrapped chicken bite to ensure even cooking.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove from the oven and let the bacon-wrapped chicken bites cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Optionally, serve with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of a delicious appetizer spread.
Enjoy these savory and sweet Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites – they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Q: Can I prepare Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites ahead of time? A: Yes, you can partially prepare them ahead of time by wrapping the chicken with bacon and coating them with the spice mixture. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. However, for the best results, it’s recommended to bake them just before serving to ensure the bacon stays crispy.
Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs can be a great alternative to chicken breasts. They have a slightly higher fat content, which can add extra juiciness to the bites.
Q: What can I use as a dipping sauce for Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites? A: You can serve these bites with a variety of dipping sauces such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing. The sweet and savory flavors of the bites complement a wide range of sauces.
Q: Can I make this recipe spicy? A: Yes, you can adjust the spice level to your liking. Increase the amount of chili powder or cayenne pepper if you want a spicier kick. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of these spices.
Q: How do I ensure the bacon stays crispy? A: To ensure crispy bacon, make sure to place the bacon-wrapped chicken bites on a wire rack on the baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate around the bacon, helping it cook evenly and become crispy.
Q: Can I grill Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites instead of baking them? A: Yes, you can definitely grill them. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the bacon-wrapped chicken bites for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked.
Q: Can I make this recipe without toothpicks? A: While toothpicks help secure the bacon around the chicken, you can place the seam side down on the baking sheet to help hold the bacon in place. Just be careful when flipping them during the baking process.
Q: Can I use turkey bacon as a healthier alternative? A: Yes, you can use turkey bacon as a healthier option. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so monitor them closely to ensure the turkey bacon cooks thoroughly without becoming too dry.
Enjoy your Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites and feel free to get creative with the recipe to suit your preferences!
