Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Savory Bacon-wrapped Chicken Delight. Tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a crispy bacon blanket, this dish is a harmonious blend of elegant refinement and cozy nostalgia. Prepare to be swept away by the irresistible aromas and flavors that will make your heart and taste buds sing with joy.
Why You’ll Love This Savory Bacon-wrapped Chicken Delight
Elevating classic comfort food into a visually stunning, gourmet-inspired creation, this Savory Bacon-wrapped Chicken Delight is a true delight for the senses. The succulent chicken, wrapped in a decadent bacon crust, offers a tempting balance of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more. Infused with warm, comforting spices and baked to perfection, this dish is the ultimate in cozy indulgence. Whether you’re seeking a satisfying weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for a special occasion, this Savory Bacon-wrapped Chicken Delight is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients
Prepare to be transported to culinary bliss with the simple, yet refined, ingredients in this Savory Bacon-wrapped Chicken Delight. Juicy, boneless, skinless chicken breasts form the delicate canvas, while a heavenly blanket of crispy, savory bacon envelops each piece. Complemented by a harmonious blend of aromatic spices, including garlic, thyme, and a touch of paprika, this dish is a true testament to the power of elevating classic comfort food.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the foundation of this divine creation.
- 8 slices of thick-cut bacon – the savory, crunchy blanket that wraps each chicken breast.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced – a fragrant aromatic that infuses the dish with warmth.
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme – an earthy, herbaceous note that complements the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika – a touch of smoky sweetness that elevates the seasoning blend.
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt – a simple seasoning that enhances the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper – a subtle kick that adds depth and balance.
- 1/2 cup of shredded parmesan cheese – a luxurious filling that melts into each bite.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Dairy-Free Version: For a dairy-free version, you can omit the parmesan cheese from the filling.
- Spicier Twist: If you prefer a spicier twist, consider adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning blend.
How to Make Savory Bacon-wrapped Chicken Delight
Follow these easy steps to create a masterpiece of comfort and elegance in your own kitchen.
Step 1 — Preheating and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to a delightful 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, ensuring a smooth, even surface for your chicken masterpiece. Gather your ingredients and get ready to create a dish that will have your guests raving.
Step 2 — Seasoning the Chicken
Carefully slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise, creating a pocket for the delectable filling. In a small bowl, combine the garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper, creating a fragrant seasoning blend. Sprinkle this magical mixture over the chicken, ensuring every nook and cranny is infused with the cozy, comforting flavors.
Step 3 — Assembling the Dish
Gently stuff the seasoned chicken breasts with the shredded parmesan cheese, taking care to distribute it evenly. Wrap each stuffed chicken breast with 2-3 slices of crispy bacon, securing it with toothpicks to hold the savory package together. Arrange the bacon-wrapped chicken on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
Step 4 — Baking to Perfection
Bake the Savory Bacon-wrapped Chicken Delight in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is deliciously crisp. Remove the toothpicks before serving, revealing the gourmet masterpiece within. Prepare to be enchanted by the aroma and the visually stunning presentation of this elevated comfort food creation.
Chef Tips & Variations
- Stuffing Variation: For a delightful twist, consider stuffing the chicken with a tantalizing blend of sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, and a touch of cream cheese.
- Cheese Fillings: Alternatively, experiment with different cheese fillings, such as crumbled feta or shredded cheddar, to suit your personal taste preferences.
- Bacon Wrap Technique: To ensure the bacon wraps adhere perfectly, you can secure them with a few toothpicks before baking.
- Crispy Exterior: If you prefer a more evenly cooked exterior, consider broiling the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to achieve a perfectly golden-brown finish.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh, crisp salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat: Reheat the Savory Bacon-wrapped Chicken Delight in the oven or a skillet when you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers.
Make-Ahead: This dish can be assembled in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply wrap the stuffed, bacon-wrapped chicken in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container, and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Nutrition Information
This Savory Bacon-wrapped Chicken Delight is a hearty, protein-packed dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Each serving provides a good source of lean protein from the chicken, while the bacon adds a delightful crunch and savory flavor. To keep the dish wholesome, be mindful of portion sizes and pair it with plenty of fresh, colorful vegetables for a truly nourishing and satisfying meal.
- Serving Size: 1 bacon-wrapped chicken breast
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 40 g
- Carbs: 3 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Savory Bacon-wrapped Chicken Delight can be assembled in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply wrap the stuffed, bacon-wrapped chicken in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container, and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Certainly! Chicken thighs would also work beautifully in this recipe, offering a slightly richer and more tender texture. Adjust the baking time as needed, as chicken thighs may require a few extra minutes in the oven.
How can I make this dish healthier?
For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of bacon used or opt for leaner, nitrate-free bacon varieties. Additionally, you can experiment with a smaller portion of parmesan cheese in the filling or use a low-fat alternative, such as reduced-fat mozzarella or ricotta.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, the Savory Bacon-wrapped Chicken Delight can be frozen for future enjoyment. Assemble the dish as directed, but do not bake. Wrap the unbaked, bacon-wrapped chicken tightly in foil or place in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
This Savory Bacon-wrapped Chicken Delight pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted or sautéed seasonal vegetables, a fresh green salad, or even a simple side of roasted potatoes or rice to complete the meal.
Try These Next
- Savory Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Thighs
- Savory Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs With Maple Glaze
- Bacon Wrapped Cheddar Ranch Chicken Bites
Savory Bacon-wrapped Chicken Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Savory Bacon-wrapped Chicken Delight is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken breasts wrapped in crispy bacon, seasoned to perfection, and baked until golden brown. Perfect for dinner gatherings!
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 slices of bacon
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Wrap each chicken breast with 2 slices of bacon, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the bacon-wrapped chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
5. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite sauce before wrapping it in bacon.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg