This Maple Garlic Bacon Chicken is a sweet and savory delight! The crispy bacon, mixed with maple syrup and garlic, creates a flavor that’s hard to resist.
Honestly, who can say no to bacon? I like to serve it with some rice to soak up all that tasty sauce. It’s simple, quick, and perfect for any weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs work well, too. They stay juicier and add extra flavor!
Bacon: Regular bacon is what I use for that classic flavor. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon can be used, although the taste and crispiness will be different.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a unique sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup for a different but still tasty result.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you have garlic powder on hand, you can use that – just about 1 teaspoon should do, but fresh is always better!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your chicken juicy, start by searing it in a hot skillet! This creates a beautiful golden crust that locks in moisture.
- Season the chicken well and make sure your skillet is hot before adding it.
- Only flip the chicken once to allow that crust to form, and don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Pull it out once it reaches 165°F to avoid drying out.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly juicy and flavorful chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Maple Garlic Bacon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of bacon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook, so you should have it ready in around 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels fancy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gets your oven ready for the chicken and ensures everything cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season both sides with salt, pepper, and the smoked paprika if you’re using it. This adds great flavor!
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crisp. Once it’s done, take it out and set it aside on paper towels to drain the excess grease. Make sure to keep the delicious bacon drippings in the skillet.
4. Sear the Chicken:
If your skillet looks a bit dry, add the olive oil. Now, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Such a nice color!
5. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Stir it around for about 30 seconds until fragrant—smell that deliciousness?
6. Maple Syrup Time:
Now drizzle the maple syrup evenly over the chicken breasts. This is where the sweet flavor comes in!
7. Bacon Crumbles:
Crumble half of your cooked bacon over the chicken. Yum!
8. Bake the Chicken:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven. Garnish your chicken with the remaining crumbled bacon and some fresh thyme or parsley if you’d like. It looks pretty too!
10. Enjoy It with Your Favorite Sides:
This Maple Garlic Bacon Chicken pairs perfectly with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. Dig in and enjoy this delightful dish!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a slightly richer flavor and remain juicier than breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that your bacon and maple syrup do not contain any added gluten. Most pure maple syrups are gluten-free, but it’s always good to double-check the labels.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove. Add a splash of maple syrup or a bit of water to help keep it moist while reheating!
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken! Place it in an airtight container and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
