Introduction

Bacon-wrapped BBQ chicken bites are the perfect fusion of flavor, crunch, and comfort. These little morsels elevate any gathering or family dinner into something extraordinary. The combination of tender chicken, smoky bacon, and zesty barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist.

Whether you're hosting a party or simply looking to treat your family, these bites are sure to impress. They're quick to prepare and ideal for both adults and kids alike, making them a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
The base of the dish, chicken breasts are a lean source of protein. When cut into bite-sized pieces, they cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the marinade and bacon.
8 slices of bacon
Bacon provides a rich, smoky flavor and a crispy texture that pairs beautifully with the chicken. Wrapping the chicken in bacon not only adds taste but also keeps it moist during cooking.
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
The barbecue sauce adds a sweet and tangy element that enhances the flavors of both the chicken and bacon. A good-quality sauce can elevate this simple dish to new heights.
1 tsp garlic powder
Garlic powder contributes depth and richness to the flavor profile. It melds beautifully with the smokiness of the bacon and the sweetness of the barbecue sauce.
1 tsp onion powder
Onion powder adds a savory note that complements the chicken and enhances the overall flavor. It's an easy way to add complexity without the need for fresh onions.
1/2 tsp black pepper
Black pepper gives a subtle heat and complexity to the dish. It balances the sweetness of the barbecue sauce and the richness of the bacon.
Wooden or metal skewers
Skewers help keep the chicken bites together during cooking. It's best to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prior to use to prevent them from burning.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Preheating the oven is crucial as it ensures even cooking. Starting with a hot oven allows the bacon to crisp up nicely, while the chicken cooks through. If the oven isn’t hot enough, you risk ending up with soggy bacon.

Step 2: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.

Uniformly cutting the chicken ensures that each piece cooks at the same rate. This also maximizes the surface area for flavor absorption and allows for even wrapping with bacon.

Step 3: In a bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

Combining the spices before seasoning the chicken allows for a more even distribution of flavors. This step guarantees each bite is flavorful and enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Step 4: Toss the chicken pieces in the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.

Coating the chicken in the seasoning helps to create a flavor base for the bites. This step is essential for infusing the chicken with rich, savory flavors before wrapping it in bacon.

Step 5: Cut each bacon strip in half and wrap each chicken piece with a piece of bacon.

Wrapping the chicken in bacon not only adds flavor but also keeps it moist during cooking. Ensure the bacon wraps snugly around the chicken to prevent unraveling while cooking.

Step 6: Secure the wrapped chicken with a skewer if necessary.

Using a skewer helps to keep the bacon in place while cooking, ensuring that each piece stays intact. This is especially useful if the bacon doesn't fully adhere to the chicken.

Step 7: Place the wrapped chicken bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Lining the baking sheet prevents the bacon from sticking and makes cleanup easier. Additionally, the parchment paper can help the bacon crisp up as the fat renders out during cooking.

Step 8: Brush the BBQ sauce generously over each chicken bite.

Applying BBQ sauce at this stage ensures that the flavors meld during cooking. Keeping some sauce aside to brush on later enhances the flavor and glaze as they bake.

Step 9: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and bacon is crispy.

It's important to check that the chicken is done to avoid food safety issues. The bacon should be crispy, providing a delightful texture that complements the tender chicken.

Step 10: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Allowing the bites to cool slightly enables the juices to redistribute within the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful bite. Serve warm for the best taste experience.

Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Chicken Bites step photo

Flavor Variations to Elevate Your Bites

Experimenting with different barbecue sauces can dramatically change the flavor profile of your chicken bites. Opt for a spicy sauce for heat, a honey-based sauce for sweetness, or even a mustard-based barbecue for a tangy twist. Each variation can give your dish a unique flair, ensuring that there's always something new to try with every batch.

Serving Suggestions for Your BBQ Chicken Bites

These bacon-wrapped bites make a fantastic appetizer, but they can also be a main dish when served alongside sides like coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. Consider setting up a dipping station with various sauces to accompany the bites, allowing guests to customize their experience and enjoy different flavor combinations.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Bacon-Wrapped Chicken

To achieve perfectly crispy bacon, make sure the strips are not too thick. Thinner bacon cooks faster and will crisp up better around the chicken. If your bacon isn’t getting crispy enough during the baking process, you can briefly broil the bites at the end of cooking. Just keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.

FAQs

What should I do if the bacon isn't crispy enough?

If the bacon isn’t crispy after the cooking time, switch on the broiler for a few minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.

Can I make these bacon-wrapped bites on the grill?

Absolutely! Preheat the grill to medium heat and cook the bites for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally for even cooking.

Is there a way to make the bites spicier?

You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or use a hot barbecue sauce for an extra kick!

What if my BBQ sauce is too thick?

If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a small amount of water or apple cider vinegar to achieve the desired consistency without losing flavor.

How can I scale this recipe for a larger crowd?

Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings needed. Make sure to use multiple baking sheets to allow space for the bites to cook evenly.

Can I add vegetables to the bites?

You can certainly add small pieces of bell pepper or onion between the chicken and bacon. Just ensure they are cut small enough to cook through.

Conclusion

Bacon-wrapped BBQ chicken bites are an indulgent treat that never fails to please. Their balance of flavors and textures makes them a fantastic choice for any occasion, from casual family meals to festive gatherings.

With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and impressive. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and make this recipe your own!

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