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Juicy chicken wrapped in smoky bacon has become a go-to dinner in my kitchen when I crave something special yet simple. The combination of bacon and garlicky parmesan flavors with tender baked chicken is always a hit for family meals or when friends are over. Baking at a gentle heat gives super moist meat, and a final broil makes those bacon edges irresistibly crisp.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: tender and juicy go for organic or free-range if you can
- Olive oil: helps the spices cling and adds moisture use extra virgin for richer flavor
- Thick-cut bacon: gives that perfect smoky crunch choose a brand with a good fat to meat ratio for best texture
- Paprika: brings subtle warmth and color try smoked paprika to boost the flavor
- Garlic powder: adds a tasty kick and blends better than fresh for this recipe
- Onion powder: balances the garlic and adds depth check freshness for best taste
- Salt and black pepper: classic seasoning adjustable for your taste or diet
- Garlic parmesan wing sauce: adds creaminess and bold cheesy garlic notes find it near wing sauces or make your own if you have time
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit early so it is fully heated when you are ready to bake
- Prepare Chicken Strips:
- Slice chicken breasts into strips about the size of chicken tenders Drizzle with olive oil and use your hands to massage the oil into all sides This step keeps the meat moist and ensures every piece is seasoned evenly
- Season the Chicken:
- Sprinkle paprika garlic powder onion powder salt and black pepper over both sides of the chicken Pat the seasonings in so they stick well the even coating adds flavor to every bite
- Wrap with Bacon:
- Lay a slice of bacon flat and roll one piece of chicken up in the bacon Slightly stretch the bacon as you go so it wraps snugly Place wrapped chicken pieces in a nine by thirteen inch casserole dish with the seam side down to prevent unrolling
- Add Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- Pour garlic parmesan wing sauce over the wrapped chicken Coat all pieces generously with a brush or spoon for even flavor coverage
- Bake the Chicken:
- Place the dish in your preheated oven Bake for twenty five to thirty minutes The bacon will render some fat which helps keep the chicken moist Check that the thickest part of each piece reads one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit
- Broil for Crispiness:
- Move the dish to the top rack and switch to broil for two to three minutes Watch closely The bacon should bubble and brown but not burn This step is what creates that signature crispy edge
- Serve the Chicken:
- Let the chicken rest for a minute or two before serving This lets the juices settle and makes for tidier slices Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy garlicky bite
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My favorite part is seeing the look on my daughter’s face when she takes that first crispy bacon bite One time my son told me it was better than any chicken nuggets he ever got at a restaurant that is how I know it is a winner for adults and kids alike
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days They reheat best in a toaster oven or on a hot skillet to keep the bacon crispy Microwaving is quick but will soften the bacon Use parchment between layers to prevent sticking
Ingredient Substitutions
Use turkey bacon if you want a lighter option Chicken thighs work well for extra juiciness Try ranch or buffalo sauce in place of garlic parmesan if you want a different twist Fresh minced garlic plus a bit of grated parmesan also makes a tasty homemade sauce
Serving Suggestions
Serve with roasted vegetables a crisp salad or steamed green beans The cheesy bacon chicken is also great sliced into wraps or laid over mashed cauliflower for a heartier meal For game day cut into chunks and serve with toothpicks and extra dipping sauce
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Cultural Context
Bacon wrapped meat is a classic American comfort tradition It is a staple at backyard gatherings and potlucks because it is both flavor-packed and easy to eat The addition of garlic parmesan sauce brings in the crowd-pleasing flavors of a favorite wing dish to the dinner table
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bacon works best for wrapping?
Thinner-cut bacon crisps up nicely while allowing the chicken to cook evenly without remaining underdone.
- → How can I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Massaging olive oil into the chicken strips before seasoning helps retain moisture during baking.
- → What oven temperature is ideal for cooking this dish?
Baking at 350 degrees Fahrenheit ensures the chicken cooks thoroughly while giving the bacon time to crisp.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can wrap the chicken and bacon earlier and bake just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → How does broiling affect the final texture?
Broiling for a few minutes at the end crisps the bacon further and adds a golden, slightly caramelized finish.
- → What alternatives can enhance the seasoning?
Adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or fresh herbs like thyme can complement the garlic parmesan flavors well.