There’s nothing quite like walking into a kitchen and being greeted by the savory aroma of bacon sizzling away. It immediately transports me to those warm, cozy evenings spent with family, where each bite is a reminder of love and home. This Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an invitation to savor a flavor explosion that includes juicy chicken breasts intricately wrapped in crispy bacon. With the perfect balance of sweet brown sugar and tangy barbecue sauce, this easy-to-make meal becomes a star player on your weeknight dinner rotation.
Whether you prefer the convenience of the oven or the crispy charm of the air fryer, this recipe is customizable to fit your cooking style. So, let’s dive into a meal that tackles the monotony of fast food and delivers a comforting hug right onto your dinner plate. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s as foolproof as it is delicious!
Why is Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken so satisfying?
Irresistible flavors: Each bite of this dish bursts with the smoky notes of bacon and the sweet-tangy kick of barbecue sauce.
Customizable goodness: You can swap sauces, adjust sweetness, or even add fillings like cheese for a personal touch.
Quick prep time: With straightforward instructions, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more at the dinner table.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it satisfies both kids and adults alike.
Versatile cooking methods: Whether you choose the oven or air fryer, you get delicious results every time.
Get ready to make this delectable dish a regular on your table!
Essential Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breast – Boneless and skinless is best for juicy results.
• Bacon – Crispy bacon adds flavor and moisture; consider turkey bacon for a lighter option.
For the Flavor
• Barbecue Sauce – Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce for customization.
• Brown Sugar (optional) – Provides sweetness and caramelization; can be replaced with honey if desired.
For Preparation
• Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking on the baking rack, ensuring easy cleanup.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, line a rimmed baking sheet with tinfoil for easy cleanup. Set a rack on top and spray it generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until the edges begin to crisp. Drain the cooked bacon on paper towels to soak up excess grease.
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Wrap each chicken breast snugly with 2-3 slices of bacon, tucking the ends underneath the chicken. If desired, secure with toothpicks for added stability.
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Coat the bacon-wrapped chicken with brown sugar if you are using it. You can either roll the chicken in brown sugar, sprinkle it on top, or dip it in melted butter before wrapping in bacon for an extra layer of sweetness.
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Bake the chicken for 30 minutes. Check the underside, and flip the chicken if necessary, ensuring even cooking.
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Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the chicken, then bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the juices run clear and the sauce is caramelized.
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Broil for an extra few minutes if you prefer crispy bacon; just monitor closely to prevent burning.
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For the air fryer: Cook at 340°F (170°C) for 40-50 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add barbecue sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken?
Elevate your weeknight dinner with delicious sides that complement the smoky sweetness of your chicken.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of bacon, balancing flavors perfectly.
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Savory Baked Potatoes: Fluffy inside and crispy outside, baked potatoes are great for soaking up any extra barbecue sauce and enhancing the meal.
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Grilled Veggies: Lightly charred vegetables add a vibrant, smoky element to your plate, achieving a compelling blend of textures and flavors.
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Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread adds comforting warmth and complements the savory profile of the bacon-wrapped chicken beautifully.
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Garlic Bread: With its buttery flavor and crispy texture, garlic bread is great for mopping up delicious juices left on your plate.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits can bring a sweet, cool contrast to the heartiness of the main dish.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: These refreshing beverages, whether sweetened or unsweetened, cut through the richness of the chicken, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can wrap the chicken breasts with bacon and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, ensuring they stay fresh and flavorful. Simply follow the instructions until the wrapping step, then store them in an airtight container to maintain their quality. When you’re ready to cook, just pop them in the oven as directed; this will save you precious time during busy weeknights. If you want to prepare even further in advance, you can also make the bacon crispy ahead of time and refrigerate it, adding it to the chicken just before baking. Either way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal hassle!
Expert Tips for Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken
• Pre-Crisp Bacon: Ensure the bacon is slightly crispy before wrapping the chicken to avoid undercooked bacon when finished.
• Use a Thermometer: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken, aiming for 165°F, for perfectly cooked bacon wrapped barbecue chicken.
• Flavor Experimentation: Feel free to explore different barbecue sauce flavors and spice levels to match your taste preferences.
• Watch Your Oven: Oven performances can vary; keep an eye on the chicken while baking to avoid overcooking or burning.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring moist and tender bites.
Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken Variations
Feeling inspired? Let’s explore some delightful twists on your Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken that will suit every palate and preference!
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Spicy Kick: Use spicy barbecue sauce or add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar for an exciting heat boost.
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Citrus Zing: Swap your barbecue sauce for a citrus glaze made with orange juice and zest for a fresh, fruity flavor.
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Cheesy Surprise: Insert a slice of your favorite cheese or a handful of shredded cheese inside each chicken breast before wrapping in bacon. It adds creaminess and mouthwatering richness.
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Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the brown sugar to enhance the dish with aromatic flavors.
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Vegetable Delight: Add chopped jalapeños or diced bell peppers inside the chicken for an extra crunch and a pop of color.
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Sweet Alternative: For a healthy sweetener, replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a delightful twist that brings out the natural flavors of the chicken.
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Thigh Makeover: Swap chicken breasts for thighs, which are juicier, ensuring a tender bite every time.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free barbecue sauce to easily accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
Each variation offers a chance to get creative, turning a family favorite into your own signature dish!
Storage Tips for Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken is completely cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bacon-wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, defrost in the fridge overnight, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Enjoy the same delicious flavors of your Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken!
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the chicken up to the baking stage, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They stay juicy and cook evenly. If you’re looking for a bit more moisture, chicken thighs can be a wonderful substitute.
How do I store leftovers?
After savoring your delicious Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken, make sure to cool it completely. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy the same incredible flavors later!
Can I freeze Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze it! I suggest wrapping each chicken piece in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe container. This prevents freezer burn. The chicken will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
What if my bacon isn’t crispy enough?
No worries! If you find that your bacon isn’t as crispy as you’d like after baking, you can pop the dish under the broiler for a few extra minutes. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent any burning. It should be perfectly crispy and delicious!
Are there any dietary considerations?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, consider using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a lower-fat option. Additionally, if you’re concerned about allergies, make sure to choose a barbecue sauce that fits your dietary needs, whether that’s gluten-free or low-sugar.
How long should I bake the chicken?
For perfectly cooked Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken, bake it for 30 minutes initially. Then, add your barbecue sauce and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes. To ensure it’s cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Irresistible Bacon Wrapped Barbecue Chicken You’ll Crave Forever
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with tinfoil and set a rack on top. Spray it generously with cooking spray.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the edges begin to crisp. Drain on paper towels.
- Wrap each chicken breast snugly with 2-3 slices of bacon, tucking the ends underneath.
- Coat the bacon-wrapped chicken with brown sugar if using.
- Bake the chicken for 30 minutes, flipping if necessary.
- Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the chicken and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Broil for extra crispy bacon, monitoring closely to prevent burning.
- For the air fryer: Cook at 340°F (170°C) for 40-50 minutes, flipping halfway and adding barbecue sauce last 5 minutes.