Chicken and Bacon Delight: Brown Sugar Garlic Infusion
Indulge your taste buds with the mesmerizing combination of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors in this exquisite bacon-wrapped chicken dish. Elevating a simple chicken breast, we delicately season it with a blend of brown sugar spices, wrap it in luscious bacon, coat it once more in the spice mix, and bake it to perfection—resulting in a caramelized exterior and a juicy center.
Despite its elegant appearance, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for hosting guests or delighting your family. The intricate flavors impressed even the most discerning eaters among us.
The magic lies in the well-balanced spice blend, introducing smokiness, sweetness, and a hint of spice without overwhelming the palate. The marriage of brown sugar and bacon enhances the dish, keeping the chicken moist and delivering a delightful crunch.
Ingredients:
- 4 Small chicken breasts
- 8 Bacon strips
- ¼ Cup of brown sugar
Spice Blend:
- 1 tsp of garlic powder
- 1½ tsp of smoked paprika
- 1 tsp of cayenne pepper
- 1½ tsp of onion powder
- ½ tsp of salt
- 1 tsp of freshly ground pepper
Directions:
Step 1: Combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and freshly ground pepper in a small bowl.
Step 2: Use half of the spice mix to season both sides of the chicken breasts thoroughly. Ensure an even distribution by rubbing it in. Wrap each chicken breast with bacon.
Step 3: Wrap each chicken breast with 2 to 4 pieces of bacon, ensuring a tight wrap without tearing. Place the seam side down for a neat appearance.
Step 4: Arrange bacon-wrapped chicken breasts in a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining spice mix evenly over them. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes, spooning pan drippings over the chicken after 10 minutes for extra juiciness.
Step 5: Use a thermometer to check if the chicken is cooked. Insert it into the center, and when it reads 165°F, the chicken is done. Alternatively, cut the breast; if it’s completely white, it’s cooked. Optionally, broil for 2 minutes after cooking for crispier bacon.
Step 6: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately. This delightful wrapped chicken can be enjoyed over mashed potatoes or paired with your favorite roasted potatoes and vegetables.