Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breast for a Low Carb Breakfast
extrarecipes This post may contain affiliate links. As an affiliate, we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
One morning, I had a fridge full of chicken breasts and a craving for bacon. I wrapped those juicy chicken breasts in crispy bacon, and the result was a pleasureful surprise — a Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breast that was both savory and satisfying. My family couldn't get enough of it, and they didn’t even realize they were enjoying a low carb breakfast!
This recipe stands out because it combines the rich flavors of bacon with the tenderness of chicken while keeping it simple and quick. Plus, the secret is in the seasoning; I use a blend that adds an unexpected twist, enhancing it beyond the usual. You’ll want to make this one again and again!
Why You'll Love It
Ingredient Notes
What You'll Need
- 4 boneless chicken breasts, about 6 oz eachlook for chicken that’s plump and has a pinkish hue for the best flavor and texture.
- 8 slices bacon, thinly slicedchoose a good quality bacon; thick-cut will take longer to cook and can overwhelm the chicken.
- 1 tsp garlic powderthis adds a nice depth of flavor without being overpowering; fresh garlic can work too, but adjust the quantity.
- 1 tsp paprikasmoked paprika adds a lovely smokiness, while sweet paprika gives a milder taste; pick based on your preference.
- 1 tsp saltseasoning is crucial; adjust based on your dietary needs and the saltiness of the bacon.
- 1/2 tsp black pepperfreshly cracked pepper gives the best flavor; adjust to your taste.
- 1 tbsp olive oil, for drizzlinghelps crisp up the bacon and keeps the chicken moist; you can use avocado oil for a different flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, optional, for toppingadds a rich, gooey layer; feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnishbrightens the dish with color and freshness; you can also use green onions or chives.
When shopping for ingredients for this Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breast, the quality of the chicken and bacon can significantly affect the dish's overall flavor. I recommend checking local butcher shops for high-quality meats, as they often have fresher options than grocery stores.
Easy Substitutions
- Dairy-free: swap shredded cheddar cheese for dairy-free cheese — this will maintain creaminess but lose some of the sharp flavor.
- Gluten-free: use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon — the texture will be leaner, and the flavor will be milder.
- Lower calorie: replace bacon with prosciutto — this gives a nice salty flavor with fewer calories, but it may be less crispy.
How to Make This Recipe
Prep & Wrap
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil. This makes for easy cleanup and helps the chicken cook evenly.
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these spices creates a flavorful base that enhances the chicken's taste.
Rub the spice mixture evenly over each chicken breast, ensuring every bit is coated. This layer of seasoning not only adds flavor but also helps form a delicious crust as it bakes.
Wrap each chicken breast with two slices of bacon, securing them with toothpicks if necessary. The bacon adds a savory, crispy layer that keeps the chicken moist while cooking.
Bake
Place the wrapped chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. This allows the bacon to render its fat and crisp up nicely during baking.
Drizzle a little olive oil over the bacon-wrapped chicken. This helps the bacon become even crispier and adds a touch of richness to the dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the bacon looks golden and crispy. Keep an eye on it, as every oven is a bit different.
If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt. The gooey cheese adds a tempting finish!
Cool & Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm. The bright green parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to this rich dish.
Pro Tips
Opt for thick-cut bacon to ensure it retains its texture and flavor during cooking. I found that regular bacon can get too crispy, leaving the chicken a bit dry. Thick-cut gives you that perfect balance of crunch and chew.
For an added layer of flavor, sear the bacon-wrapped chicken in a hot skillet for a few minutes before transferring it to the oven. This step caramelizes the bacon and enhances its smoky aroma. Trust me, it’s worth the extra pan!
Let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender. I often get impatient, but this step really makes a difference.
Don’t be afraid to play with different spices and herbs in your rub. I love adding a pinch of cayenne for heat or some brown sugar for a sweet touch. Each variation gives a unique twist, keeping the dish exciting every time.
Variations & Customizations
Flavor Twists
BBQ Bacon Delight
Before wrapping the chicken, brush each breast with 2 tablespoons of your favorite BBQ sauce. The smoky sweetness of the sauce adds a sticky glaze, creating a beautifully caramelized exterior that contrasts wonderfully with the crispy bacon. The flavors meld together, giving you a savory-sweet bite that’s incredibly satisfying.
Spicy Jalapeño
Add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped jalapeños and 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This variation brings a zesty kick that enhances the whole dish. The heat from the jalapeños complements the salty bacon, and the result is a delicious rich flavors with a fiery finish.
Kid-Friendly
Cheesy Ranch Explosion
Mix ½ cup of ranch seasoning into the shredded cheddar cheese before topping the chicken. You’ll get a creamy, tangy flavor that kids can’t resist. The melted cheese becomes gooey, while the ranch adds a fun twist, making this version a sure hit at the dinner table. Plus, it looks enticing with the melty cheese dripping over the crispy bacon!
Storage & Meal Prep
How to Store
Room Temperature
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breasts should not be left out for more than two hours. If you need to store them at room temperature, use a covered dish to keep them from drying out.
Refrigerator
Store them in an airtight container for up to four days. Make sure to cool the chicken completely before sealing; wrapping them individually in foil helps maintain moisture and flavor.
Freezer
You can freeze these for up to three months. I recommend flash freezing them on a sheet pan first, then wrapping each piece in plastic wrap or foil. For best results, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Meal Prep
Doubling the recipe is a great idea, especially if you want leftovers for the week. Prep them the night before for quick cooking the next day or make a larger batch over the weekend. Store in individual containers, and they’ll stay fresh for up to four days. When reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.
Equipment You'll Need
Essential
Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning. I prefer a rimmed sheet to catch any drippings, making cleanup easier. If you have a non-stick option, that’s great for preventing any bacon sticking.
Oven thermometer: Ovens can be off by quite a bit, affecting cooking times. A thermometer helps ensure your oven is at a precise 400°F, giving you that perfectly cooked chicken and crispy bacon without the guesswork.
Nice to Have
Meat thermometer: This handy tool takes the stress out of cooking chicken. A quick check ensures it’s reached the safe internal temperature of 165°F. It’s a small investment for peace of mind in the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon, but keep in mind that it has less fat. This may result in a drier chicken breast since the fat from traditional bacon helps keep the chicken moist and adds flavor.
Why did my bacon-wrapped chicken turn out soggy?
Soggy bacon usually results from not cooking it long enough or using thin-cut bacon. Consider partially cooking the bacon before wrapping it around the chicken to ensure you achieve that crispy texture.
How can I make this dish spicy?
To add some heat, sprinkle your chicken breasts with cayenne pepper or chili powder before wrapping them in bacon. You can also brush them with a spicy BBQ sauce for an extra kick.
Can I prepare these chicken breasts ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can wrap the chicken breasts in bacon and store them in the fridge for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This actually allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
What should I serve with bacon-wrapped chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. The crispy bacon and juicy chicken complement sides like mashed potatoes or garlic bread, balancing the meal beautifully.
Bacon wrapped chicken breast is a showstopper that never fails to impress at dinner parties or family gatherings. For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite herbs before wrapping it in bacon. I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so be sure to leave a comment or share your version on Pinterest!
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breast
by extrarecipes
Enjoy a delicious low-carb breakfast with tender chicken and crispy bacon for a satisfying start to your day.
Save this recipe!
Enter your email and we'll send it straight to your inbox.
Ingredients
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless chicken breasts
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley
Instructions
Method
- 1
Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil.
- 2
In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- 3
Rub the spice mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
- 4
Wrap each chicken breast with 2 slices of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
- 5
Place wrapped chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
- 6
Drizzle olive oil over the bacon-wrapped chicken.
- 7
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the bacon is crispy.
- 8
If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt.
- 9
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- 10
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve.
Nutrition (per serving)
Ratings & Reviews
Be the first to review this recipe!
