Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 strips of bacon, cut in half
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Toothpicks
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, season the chicken breast pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Wrapping the Chicken:
- Wrap each piece of chicken with a half strip of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
- Place the bacon-wrapped chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Baking:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
- Optionally, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes to crisp up the bacon further.
4. Serving:
- Remove the chicken bites from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs.
- Serve warm.
5. Storing:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Tips:
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can brush the bacon-wrapped chicken bites with a bit of barbecue sauce or honey before baking.
- Serve with a dipping sauce such as ranch, honey mustard, or aioli for added taste.
- To make ahead, you can assemble the bacon-wrapped chicken bites and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
Enjoy these delicious and savory Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites, perfect as an appetizer or a party snack!
These mouth-watering Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering, whether it’s a casual family get-together, a festive holiday party, or simply a fun night in with friends. The combination of tender, juicy chicken breast pieces encased in crispy, flavorful bacon creates an irresistible treat that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
To prepare these delectable bites, start by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes. Season the chicken pieces generously with your favorite spices—think paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. For a touch of heat, you can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
Next, take slices of high-quality bacon and cut them into halves or thirds, depending on their length. Wrap each seasoned chicken cube with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick to ensure it stays in place during cooking. For an extra burst of flavor, you could brush the bacon-wrapped chicken bites with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and a hint of mustard before baking or grilling them.
Arrange the prepared chicken bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are evenly spaced for optimal cooking. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the bites for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through. Alternatively, you could grill them on medium heat, turning occasionally, until they achieve that perfect balance of crispy bacon and juicy chicken.
To serve, arrange the Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites on a platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Offer a variety of dipping sauces on the side—ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a tangy mustard dip—to cater to different taste preferences.
Not only are these Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites incredibly tasty, but they are also versatile. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs or preferences. For a low-carb version, opt for sugar-free bacon and skip any sweet glazes. If you’re looking to add a gourmet twist, consider stuffing the chicken pieces with a small slice of jalapeño, a sliver of cheese, or a dollop of cream cheese before wrapping them in bacon.
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites are a delightful and crowd-pleasing addition to any appetizer spread or snack menu. Their savory, smoky flavor and juicy texture make them a favorite among many, and their ease of preparation ensures that you’ll have more time to enjoy the company of your guests. So next time you’re planning a party or simply craving a delicious homemade snack, give these Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites a try!
