There’s just something about the combination of sweet, smoky, and savory that brings a meal to life in the most comforting way. This Maple Bacon Wrapped Chicken recipe is exactly that kind of dish. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts seasoned with warm spices, lovingly wrapped in strips of smoky beef or turkey bacon, and finished with a drizzle of pure maple syrup and a touch of brown sugar. Then, as if that wasn’t enough to tempt your taste buds, the whole thing is baked until perfectly cooked and broiled just long enough to crisp up the bacon and caramelize that sweet glaze. Yes, it’s every bit as delicious as it sounds.
This dish has quickly become a staple in my kitchen, especially on days when I need something impressive but don’t want to be stuck at the stove all evening. It checks all the boxes: easy to prep, full of bold flavor, and versatile enough to serve at a family dinner or even when entertaining guests. Plus, it smells amazing as it cooks. That alone is reason enough to make it.
The first time I made this dish was on a chilly Friday evening. I was craving something hearty and soul-warming, but I also wanted to keep things relatively simple. As the bacon crisped and the maple syrup bubbled in the oven, the kitchen filled with this intoxicating aroma that had everyone peeking their heads in, asking when dinner would be ready. Since then, it’s been one of those “keep forever” recipes — the kind you turn to when you want to impress without breaking a sweat.
What makes this Maple Bacon Wrapped Chicken truly special is how it balances textures and flavors so beautifully. The chicken stays moist and juicy thanks to the marinade, the bacon adds a savory crunch, and the maple-brown sugar topping brings a rich caramel-like sweetness that takes it to another level. It’s the perfect marriage of sweet and salty, with just a hint of heat from the chili powder to keep things interesting.
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or die-hard foodies, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. It doesn’t rely on fancy ingredients or complicated steps. Instead, it brings everything together with simple pantry staples and a few good cooking techniques. So if you’ve got chicken, some good-quality bacon, and a bottle of maple syrup, you’re halfway there.
Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Maple Bacon Wrapped Chicken Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Maple Bacon Wrapped Chicken recipe, starting with its unbeatable combination of ease and flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or someone just learning your way around the kitchen, this dish is approachable, rewarding, and totally worth the few extra minutes it takes to wrap each piece of chicken in bacon.
First and foremost, this recipe is incredibly simple to make. With just a short list of ingredients and straightforward steps, you won’t find yourself overwhelmed at any point in the process. It doesn’t require any marinating overnight, lengthy chopping, or fancy kitchen gadgets. It’s all about layering flavor with minimal effort.
The flavors in this dish are where it truly shines. The chicken is seasoned with a warm blend of spices—onion powder, garlic salt, black pepper, paprika, and a touch of chili powder—then tossed in sweet maple syrup. That mix of spice and syrup creates a beautifully balanced base. Then comes the bacon, which not only keeps the chicken moist during baking but also adds a rich, smoky depth that complements the sweetness perfectly. And finally, a sprinkle of brown sugar on top creates a thin, caramelized crust after broiling that gives you a bite that’s crispy, sticky, and packed with flavor.
Another reason this dish stands out is its versatility. It’s fancy enough to serve when you have friends or family over, but also practical enough for weeknight dinners. Kids love the sweetness, adults appreciate the depth of flavor, and everyone always asks for seconds. Plus, you can serve it with everything from roasted veggies to mashed potatoes, rice, or even a fresh salad, making it easy to build a complete meal around it.
It also reheats beautifully, which means leftovers are just as good—if not better—the next day. And let’s be honest: having a dish that’s this flavorful and meal-prep-friendly is a total win.
So if you’re looking for a no-fail recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimum fuss, you’re in the right place.
Health Benefits
While Maple Bacon Wrapped Chicken sounds indulgent—and let’s be real, it is a little indulgent—it also offers a surprising number of health benefits when prepared mindfully. By making small adjustments and using high-quality ingredients, this dish can fit into a balanced diet without compromising on flavor.
To start, chicken breast is one of the leanest sources of protein available. It’s low in fat and high in essential nutrients like niacin, selenium, and vitamin B6. Protein is not only important for muscle maintenance and repair, but it also helps keep you feeling full longer, making it easier to avoid unnecessary snacking later.
Next, let’s talk about the spices. Onion powder, garlic salt, paprika, chili powder, and black pepper do more than just flavor the dish. These spices are full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that contribute to overall health. For example, paprika contains capsaicin, which may help with metabolism and inflammation. Meanwhile, garlic has long been recognized for its immune-boosting properties.
Then there’s the maple syrup. While it’s still a form of sugar, pure maple syrup is more than just a sweetener. It contains antioxidants and important minerals like manganese and zinc. When used in moderation—as it is in this recipe—it’s a more natural way to add sweetness and depth to dishes compared to refined sugars or artificial syrups.
The bacon is, admittedly, the most indulgent part of this dish. However, choosing turkey or beef bacon over pork bacon lowers the saturated fat content considerably. Many brands now offer lower-sodium and nitrate-free options, which makes a noticeable difference when you’re trying to eat more healthfully without giving up your favorite flavors.
You can also control the amount of added sugar by using just enough brown sugar to create that caramelized finish. A tablespoon per piece isn’t much when balanced with lean protein and wholesome sides.
Lastly, this dish is baked rather than fried, which significantly reduces unnecessary oil and fat. The broiling step is short but effective, adding a satisfying crispiness without relying on deep frying.
When paired with vegetables or whole grains, Maple Bacon Wrapped Chicken becomes part of a balanced meal that satisfies both your cravings and your nutritional needs. It’s proof that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for health—you just need a good recipe and smart choices.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
Before diving into the ingredients and steps, let’s take a quick look at what kind of commitment you’re making with this recipe. Spoiler alert: It’s not a huge one. This meal comes together in under an hour, which makes it a great option for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough to serve for special occasions or family dinners.
Total Preparation Time
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Broiling Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes 4 generous servings, with one chicken breast per person. You can easily double the recipe if you’re cooking for a crowd or want leftovers for the week.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 410
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Sugars: 9g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 760mg
Fiber: 0.5g
Keep in mind that these values can vary slightly depending on the brand of bacon or syrup you use. For a lower calorie count, consider using leaner bacon options and reducing the brown sugar slightly without compromising on taste.
Now that you know what to expect in terms of time and nutrition, let’s talk ingredients.
Ingredients List
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an important role in building the final flavor, so while the list may seem short, it’s packed with purpose.
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the foundation of the dish. They stay juicy and tender when baked and absorb all the flavors from the seasoning and syrup.
- 1 pound beef or turkey bacon: Choose your favorite variety—just make sure it’s thick enough to wrap without tearing. Bacon adds saltiness, texture, and richness.
Seasoning Blend
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle savory base that enhances the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt: Provides both flavor and seasoning. If you’re watching sodium, you can use garlic powder and a pinch of salt instead.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Brings just the right amount of mild heat.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth, color, and a hint of smokiness.
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder: A gentle kick of heat to balance the sweetness.
Sweet Glaze
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup: Brings natural sweetness with a rich, earthy depth that pairs beautifully with bacon.
- 4 tablespoons light brown sugar: Sprinkled on top to caramelize during broiling, creating a sticky, golden crust.
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped: This brightens the dish and adds a pop of color right before serving.
Optional substitutions include using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for more depth or adding a pinch of cayenne if you want extra heat. As always, use the highest-quality ingredients you can find—especially the syrup, since it’s such a central flavor. Skip the pancake syrup and go for the real deal.
Next up, we’ll walk through each step of the cooking process so you can recreate this dish like a pro.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that we’ve covered what makes this recipe so special and the ingredients you’ll need, it’s time to walk through the cooking process step-by-step. The good news is that even if you’re a beginner, this is one of those foolproof recipes that looks gourmet but comes together with minimal stress. Each step builds layers of flavor, and I’ll guide you through every part so you feel confident from start to finish.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
The first thing you’ll want to do is preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly from the start, locking in all that juiciness.
While the oven is preheating, go ahead and line a baking dish or sheet with aluminum foil. This not only makes for easier cleanup later but also prevents the brown sugar glaze from sticking and burning on your pan. If you have a wire rack that fits into your baking sheet, place that on top of the foil. It will help the bacon crisp up evenly on all sides, though it’s totally fine to bake directly on the foil-lined pan if you don’t have one.
Step 2: Mix the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine your dry seasonings first. This includes:
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp chili powder
Whisk these together to make sure they’re well blended, and then add ¼ cup of pure maple syrup to the bowl. Give it another good whisk until everything is nicely combined into a sweet and spicy marinade.
This marinade isn’t just for flavor—it helps coat the chicken and adds moisture, which is key to preventing the chicken breasts from drying out in the oven. The spices give the syrup just enough heat and depth to contrast the sweetness without overwhelming it.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and add them to the bowl with the marinade. Use tongs or clean hands to toss them around until they are fully coated on all sides. Make sure every part of the chicken is covered with the marinade so you get maximum flavor with every bite.
At this stage, you can also let the chicken sit for about 10–15 minutes if you have extra time. It’s not required, but a short rest allows the flavors to absorb into the meat more fully. While it’s resting, you can start prepping the bacon.
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
This is where the magic really starts to happen. Lay out your bacon strips on a clean cutting board or plate. You’ll need about 2–3 strips per chicken breast, depending on their size and how much coverage you want. If your chicken breasts are especially thick, you might want to use a third slice to ensure it’s completely wrapped.
To make wrapping easier, place one chicken breast at the edge of the bacon strips, and then roll it up so the bacon wraps around the chicken in a spiral. The ends of the bacon should tuck underneath to stay in place. If you’re finding it tricky, you can secure the bacon with toothpicks, just remember to remove them before serving.
The goal here is to completely encase the chicken in bacon, which locks in the moisture during baking and creates that signature crispy outer layer once broiled.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Now that your chicken is wrapped and ready, place each piece seam-side down in a single layer on your prepared baking dish or sheet. Make sure there’s a little space between each one to allow for even cooking and air circulation.
Bake for 30 minutes in your preheated oven. During this time, the chicken will cook through, and the bacon will start to render its fat and crisp up slightly. You might notice a bit of bubbling or sizzling from the maple syrup and seasonings—that’s exactly what you want.
To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach at least 165°F (74°C). If you’re cooking especially thick chicken breasts, they may need an extra 5 minutes or so.
Step 6: Broil with Brown Sugar
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the tray from the oven and change your oven setting to broil. Keep the chicken on the middle or upper rack, but not too close to the broiler to avoid burning.
Before broiling, take a pastry brush or spoon and baste each piece with the juices and glaze that have collected in the bottom of the pan. This step enhances the flavor and helps the brown sugar stick.
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of light brown sugar evenly over the top of each bacon-wrapped chicken breast. Use your fingers to gently press it into the bacon if needed.
Broil for 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely. The brown sugar will begin to melt and caramelize, creating a crispy, sticky coating over the bacon. Keep an eye on it—sugar burns quickly, and every broiler is a little different.
Once the bacon looks golden and slightly crispy, and the sugar is bubbling, it’s done. Carefully remove the tray from the oven.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This gives the juices a chance to redistribute and helps the glaze set up a bit.
Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over each piece for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. It’s a small detail, but it really elevates the presentation.
Now you’re ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying, flavorful chicken dishes you’ll ever make.
How to Serve
This Maple Bacon Wrapped Chicken is incredibly versatile, so you have plenty of options when it comes to serving it. Whether you’re aiming for a hearty dinner or a lighter, more balanced plate, there’s a pairing that works beautifully.
Start by considering the main role this chicken will play. Is it the centerpiece of a big family dinner? Or part of a casual weeknight meal? Depending on the occasion, you can scale the sides up or down accordingly.
For a classic approach, serve the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes. The richness of the potatoes complements the sweet-savory glaze of the chicken, and the textures work perfectly together. Add a side of roasted vegetables—like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans—to round things out and bring in some freshness.
If you’re going for something lighter, try pairing it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze. The acidity cuts through the richness and refreshes your palate between bites.
Another great option is rice or quinoa. These grains absorb the delicious juices from the chicken and bacon, making every bite flavorful. You can even spoon some of the leftover glaze over the grains for extra goodness.
This dish also works well sliced and added to wraps, sandwiches, or even on top of flatbreads. The leftovers make an excellent meal prep solution that tastes just as good (if not better) the next day.
Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to pairing Maple Bacon Wrapped Chicken with side dishes or drinks, the key is balance. Since the chicken is rich and full of bold flavors, your pairings should either complement its sweetness or offer a bit of contrast.
Side Dish Pairings
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery with a hint of garlic, they soak up the maple glaze beautifully.
- Honey Roasted Carrots: The natural sweetness of the carrots plays off the maple syrup in the dish.
- Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: A simple, clean veggie that adds freshness and color.
- Herb Rice or Wild Rice Pilaf: Mild and nutty, it lets the chicken shine while adding substance to your plate.
- Coleslaw or Cucumber Salad: Something crisp and vinegary helps cut through the richness.
Beverage Pairings
Since this is a halal-friendly recipe, we’ll stick to non-alcoholic beverages that bring out the best in the dish.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: The tartness and bubbles are a refreshing contrast to the sweet, savory chicken.
- Iced Mint Tea: Light, herby, and super refreshing—ideal for summer dinners.
- Lemon or Citrus-Infused Water: Clean and hydrating with a splash of brightness.
- Pineapple or Mango Juice: If you love sweet-on-sweet combos, this is a tropical way to enhance those flavors.
Whether you’re keeping it classic or adding a twist, your pairings will help elevate this dish from delicious to unforgettable. Coming up next, let’s talk about how to store leftovers, freeze extras, and reheat them perfectly for round two.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
One of the best parts about this Maple Bacon Wrapped Chicken—aside from its mouthwatering flavor—is how well it stores and reheats. Whether you’re prepping meals in advance, cooking for a smaller household, or just hoping for delicious leftovers, this dish handles storage like a champ. Knowing how to properly store, freeze, and reheat it will help preserve its flavor and texture, so you’re not just eating leftovers—you’re enjoying a second helping of goodness.
Storing Leftovers in the Fridge
Once your chicken has cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It’s important not to store the chicken while it’s still hot, as this can create excess moisture inside the container, which might make the bacon soggy. For best results:
- Use a shallow airtight container to allow the chicken to cool quickly and evenly.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
- Keep any leftover pan juices in the container, too—they’re packed with flavor and help keep the chicken moist when reheating.
If you’ve served the chicken with a side dish, such as mashed potatoes or rice, store those separately if possible to avoid any textural changes.
Freezing for Later
If you’re planning ahead or made a double batch, freezing this dish is a smart move. The key is to freeze it before the bacon gets too soft from extended refrigeration.
To freeze:
- Let the chicken cool completely.
- Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or foil. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps the glaze intact.
- Place wrapped chicken pieces into a zip-top freezer bag or a freezer-safe container. Be sure to label it with the date.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
You can also freeze unbaked, bacon-wrapped chicken breasts if you want to prepare them ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish as directed, place the wrapped chicken breasts on a baking sheet, and freeze them until firm (about 2 hours). Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to cook, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as usual.
Reheating Instructions
To preserve the juiciness of the chicken and the crispiness of the bacon, reheating properly is essential. You have a few options depending on the time you have available.
In the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover loosely with foil to prevent drying.
- Reheat for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. You can remove the foil during the last 5 minutes to help re-crisp the bacon.
- Optionally, brush with any leftover pan juices or a small amount of maple syrup for added moisture.
In the Microwave:
- Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to retain moisture.
- Heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, checking frequently.
- While convenient, the microwave may soften the bacon, so the texture might not be as crisp.
In the Air Fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the chicken in the basket, making sure it’s not overlapping.
- Heat for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method is great for getting the bacon crispy again.
With these methods, you can enjoy this dish just as much the second time around—maybe even more so after all the flavors have had a chance to meld together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls that can trip you up if you’re not careful. Let’s go over these potential mistakes and how to avoid them, so your Maple Bacon Wrapped Chicken turns out perfect every time.
1. Using Watery Maple Syrup
Not all maple syrups are created equal. If you use pancake syrup or an imitation version, the flavor won’t be nearly as rich, and you might end up with a watery glaze that doesn’t caramelize properly. Always go for pure maple syrup, preferably grade A amber for its balanced sweetness.
2. Not Draining the Chicken Before Baking
If your chicken has a lot of excess moisture—especially if it was previously frozen—make sure to pat it dry with paper towels before marinating. This helps the seasoning stick and prevents the bacon from becoming soggy during baking.
3. Wrapping the Bacon Too Tightly or Too Loosely
It’s important to wrap the bacon snugly but not overly tight. Too tight and it could shrink and squeeze the chicken awkwardly; too loose and it won’t stay in place or cook evenly. Lay it flat, overlap slightly, and tuck the ends underneath to secure.
4. Overcooking the Chicken
Dry chicken is the easiest way to ruin this dish. The best way to avoid overcooking is to use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken when it reaches 165°F (74°C). Remember, it will continue cooking slightly as it rests.
5. Broiling Without Supervision
That final broil is what gives you the crispy bacon and sticky brown sugar crust—but it happens fast. Don’t walk away from the oven during this step. Sugar burns easily, and one extra minute can take your glaze from golden to blackened.
Avoiding these five mistakes can turn a good dish into a great one and ensure that every time you make this recipe, it’s as impressive as the first.
Pro Tips
To take this recipe to the next level, consider incorporating these helpful pro tips. They’ll not only improve the flavor and texture but also make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
1. Use Thin, High-Quality Bacon
Bacon thickness matters here. Thinner slices crisp up better and faster, giving you that perfect outer shell without needing a long broil. Thicker slices may not fully cook or caramelize unless pre-cooked slightly before wrapping.
2. Let the Chicken Rest After Baking
Just like with any protein, resting the chicken for 5 minutes after cooking helps lock in the juices. Cutting it too soon could lead to dryness as the juices spill out onto the plate instead of staying in the meat.
3. Double the Marinade for Extra Flavor
If you want extra sauciness, make a double batch of the marinade and set half aside before adding the raw chicken. You can then use the reserved portion to baste the chicken halfway through baking or drizzle a little over your sides.
4. Use a Wire Rack for Maximum Crisp
Baking the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet allows the heat to circulate underneath, helping the bacon get crispy on all sides. This also prevents the chicken from sitting in its juices and steaming rather than roasting.
5. Customize the Sweetness and Heat
This dish is incredibly flexible. Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne or extra chili powder. Prefer less sweetness? Reduce the brown sugar by half. Tailor the flavor to your taste without compromising the core of the dish.
With these pro tips, you’ll not only master the recipe but also gain more confidence in your cooking overall. Now, let’s move into a few frequently asked questions to cover any lingering uncertainties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs are often juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Just adjust the baking time accordingly—thighs may need 5–10 extra minutes depending on size and thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F.
What kind of bacon works best?
You can use either turkey bacon or beef bacon, depending on your dietary preferences. Choose a brand that’s slightly smoky and not overly thick. Avoid pre-cooked varieties, as they won’t wrap or crisp as well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken up to a day in advance—just marinate, wrap in bacon, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking for even cooking.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely. This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as all your ingredients are certified gluten-free—especially the bacon and spices. Double-check your brown sugar and maple syrup brands to be sure.
How can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
To make a lower-sugar version, you can cut the brown sugar in half or eliminate it entirely. The maple syrup alone will still give you plenty of sweetness and that signature sticky glaze.
What sides go well with this dish?
Some great side options include garlic mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, green beans, wild rice, or a simple salad. For something light, pair it with quinoa and sautéed spinach or a citrusy cabbage slaw.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Yes, but it requires a bit more attention. Bacon can cause flare-ups, so use indirect heat and cook with the grill lid closed. Grill over medium heat for about 20–25 minutes, flipping occasionally and brushing with marinade as needed.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to ensure it’s fully cooked is to use a digital meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F before removing from the oven. Also, the bacon should look golden and slightly crispy.
Can I make this spicier?
For sure. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix, or mix a little hot sauce into the maple syrup before coating the chicken. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes on top right before broiling for a subtle kick.
Will the bacon get crispy?
Yes, especially with the broil step at the end. If you prefer ultra-crispy bacon, you can partially cook the bacon strips for a few minutes before wrapping the chicken. Just be sure they’re still flexible enough to wrap.
Now that we’ve answered the most common questions, let’s wrap up with a few final thoughts and a friendly nudge to give this recipe a try.
Conclusion & Call to Action
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that looks fancy, tastes phenomenal, and comes together without turning your kitchen into a disaster zone. That’s exactly what Maple Bacon Wrapped Chicken offers—a sweet and savory showstopper that delivers on all fronts. It’s the kind of recipe that checks every box: easy to make, packed with flavor, customizable to suit your preferences, and versatile enough for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
What makes this dish truly memorable is the harmony between its ingredients. You start with juicy, well-seasoned chicken breasts, then wrap them in crispy, smoky bacon that practically melts into the meat as it cooks. The maple syrup glaze adds a gentle sweetness, and that final broil with brown sugar gives you a perfectly caramelized crust that’s sticky, crisp, and oh-so-delicious. Every bite is layered with texture and flavor, from the tender chicken center to the crackly, golden bacon on the outside.
Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, wild rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad, this dish fits seamlessly into a variety of meal plans. It’s flexible enough to make your own, with opportunities to dial up the heat, adjust the sweetness, or even swap in different proteins like chicken thighs or turkey cutlets. And with the added bonus of easy storage, freezer-friendliness, and straightforward reheating, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to time and time again.
But beyond its flavor and convenience, what I love most about this recipe is how it brings people together. It’s the dish that has friends leaning over the table for seconds, the one that makes your family smile after a long day, and the one that might just become part of your dinner rotation for years to come. There’s no stress, no fuss—just pure comfort, warmth, and satisfaction on a plate.
So here’s my invitation to you: give this Maple Bacon Wrapped Chicken a try. You don’t need to be an expert cook or have a fancy kitchen setup. You just need a few simple ingredients, a little time, and the excitement of cooking something truly special. Follow the steps, use the tips, trust the process—and most importantly, enjoy every single bite.
Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Share your version of the dish in the comments or tag me in your photos on social media. Seeing your creations and hearing your feedback makes this whole cooking journey even more rewarding. And if you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m always happy to help.
Now go on, preheat that oven, grab your ingredients, and get cooking. This dish is waiting for you, and once you taste it, you’ll know exactly why it’s worth the hype.
PrintMaple Bacon Wrapped Chicken: Sweet, Savory, and Easy to Make
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This sweet and savory chicken recipe features juicy chicken breasts wrapped in smoky bacon, glazed with maple syrup, and finished with a brown sugar broil. It’s incredibly flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp garlic salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika
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¼ tsp chili powder
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¼ cup pure maple syrup
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1 lb beef or turkey bacon
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4 tbsp light brown sugar
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.
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In a bowl, whisk together onion powder, garlic salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder, and maple syrup.
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Coat chicken breasts in the marinade.
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Wrap each chicken breast with 2–3 bacon strips.
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Place seam-side down on the baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes.
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Remove from oven. Brush with pan juices, sprinkle brown sugar on top.
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Broil for 3–5 minutes, until bacon is crispy and sugar is caramelized.
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Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
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Use pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup.
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For extra crispy bacon, use a wire rack during baking.
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Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Can be made ahead and frozen (cooked or uncooked).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked & Broiled
- Cuisine: American