Dive into the world of elevated comfort with Chef Crenn’s Garlic-Butter Cheddar Crust Sheet-Pan Chicken Bites with Smoky Bacon. This recipe transforms classic chicken bites into a visually stunning, feel-good creation that will make your taste buds soar. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey where cozy meets elegance, and the art of cooking meets the soul of comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic-Butter Cheddar Crust Sheet-Pan Chicken Bites With Smoky Bacon
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food made with a gourmet twist. The combination of juicy chicken, decadent garlic-butter cheddar crust, and the irresistible smoky bacon creates a dish that is both satisfying and visually stunning. Prepare to be inspired as you transform classic chicken bites into a refined, cozy masterpiece that will have your family and guests raving.
Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to creating this heavenly dish with a carefully curated list of ingredients. From the tender chicken to the luscious cheddar cheese, each component plays a crucial role in bringing this refined comfort food to life. Prepare to embark on a sensory journey as you gather the perfect blend of flavors.
- 2 pounds – Boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 tablespoons – Unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves – Garlic, minced
- 1 cup – Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup – Shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices – Smoked bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1 teaspoon – Smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon – Dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon – Kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon – Ground black pepper
Ingredient Substitutions
- Chicken Thighs: Chicken breasts — a leaner option that still delivers juicy, tender results.
- Cheddar Cheese: Gruyère or Parmesan — for a more complex, nutty flavor profile.
How to Make Garlic-Butter Cheddar Crust Sheet-Pan Chicken Bites With Smoky Bacon
Prepare to embark on a culinary journey filled with the aroma of garlic, the richness of butter, and the smoky essence of bacon. Chef Crenn’s step-by-step guidance will lead you through the process of transforming classic chicken bites into a visually stunning, comfort-infused masterpiece.
Step 1 — Prep Work
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. In a separate bowl, mix together the Panko breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 2 — Main Cooking Process
Add the chicken pieces to the garlic-butter mixture and toss to coat evenly. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer. Sprinkle the Panko-cheddar mixture over the chicken, gently pressing it into the pieces to help it adhere. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Step 3 — Final Steps/Assembly
Remove the Garlic-Butter Cheddar Crust Sheet-Pan Chicken Bites from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Savor the harmonious blend of flavors and the visual elegance of this comfort-meets-sophistication dish.
Chef Tips & Variations
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the garlic-butter mixture for a subtle kick of heat.
- Herb Garden: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil to infuse the crust with an aromatic twist.
- Crispy Topping: For an even crunchier crust, mix in crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs with the cheddar cheese mixture.
- Veggie Addition: Roast some Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or cauliflower alongside the chicken bites for a complete sheet-pan meal.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Roasted potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a fresh green salad for a well-balanced, comforting meal.
Storage: Store any leftover Garlic-Butter Cheddar Crust Sheet-Pan Chicken Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy.
Reheat: For best results, reheat the chicken bites in the oven to maintain the crispy crust. Microwave heating may cause the crust to become soft.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the Panko-cheddar mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container. When ready to cook, toss the chicken with the garlic-butter and assemble the dish on the baking sheet.
Nutrition Information
Indulge in the decadence of this dish while nourishing your body with the essential nutrients it provides. Each serving of the Garlic-Butter Cheddar Crust Sheet-Pan Chicken Bites with Smoky Bacon offers a balanced blend of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to keep you feeling satisfied and energized.
- Serving Size: 4-5 chicken bites
- Calories: 432 kcal
- Protein: 38 g
- Carbs: 16 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Sodium: 718 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer a richer, more tender texture, you can easily substitute chicken breasts for a leaner option. Just be mindful not to overcook the chicken breasts, as they can become dry more quickly than thighs.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the Panko breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs. You can also use almond flour or ground oats as a substitute.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Panko-cheddar topping in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, simply toss the chicken with the garlic-butter mixture and top with the pre-made crust before popping it in the oven.
How do I ensure the crust stays crispy?
For the crispiest crust, be sure to arrange the chicken in a single layer on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding. Additionally, broiling the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking can help crisp up the crust even further.
Can I freeze the leftover chicken bites?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover Garlic-Butter Cheddar Crust Sheet-Pan Chicken Bites for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and the crust is crispy again.
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Garlic-Butter Cheddar Crust Sheet-Pan Chicken Bites With Smoky Bacon
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Garlic-Butter Cheddar Crust Sheet-Pan Chicken Bites With Smoky Bacon are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken bites with a crispy cheddar crust and smoky bacon flavor.
Ingredients
1. 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2. 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
3. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
5. 4 cloves garlic, minced
6. 1 tsp paprika
7. 1 tsp salt
8. 1/2 tsp black pepper
9. 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 2. In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. 3. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat.
4. 4. Spread the chicken on a sheet pan in a single layer.
5. 5. Sprinkle crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken.
6. 6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.
7. 7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
8. 8. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the garlic butter mixture for 30 minutes before baking.
You can substitute the chicken with turkey or tofu for a different twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Sheet Pan & Casseroles
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg