This Maple Garlic Bacon Chicken is a hit for a cozy dinner! Juicy chicken is cooked with crispy bacon and a sweet garlic glaze that makes it simply mouthwatering.
If you love sweet and salty flavors, this dish is a winner! I like to serve it with some rice or a simple salad. Trust me, you’ll want seconds—who can resist bacon? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they stay juicy and absorb flavors well. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean turkey cutlets work nicely too.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for more crunch and savory flavor. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey bacon is a great substitute. Just be aware that it may cook differently, so watch it closely!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a fantastic sweetness. If you’re out of stock, you can use honey or agave syrup, but the flavor will shift slightly. I prefer using the real deal for that authentic taste!
Garlic: Fresh garlic offers the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Searing the chicken before baking is key to locking in moisture and flavor. Here’s how to perfect it:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and add olive oil before adding the chicken. This helps develop a golden crust that keeps the juices inside.
- Avoid crowding the pan—give the chicken space to brown nicely. If your skillet isn’t large enough, work in batches.
- Keep an eye on the internal temperature of the chicken. Using a meat thermometer ensures it reaches 165°F (74°C) without drying out.
Following these tips will help you achieve deliciously juicy chicken every time! Enjoy your meal! 😊
Maple Garlic Bacon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of bacon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For The Sauce:
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Seasoning:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes of cooking time. So, from start to finish, you can have a delicious dinner ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, go ahead and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when your chicken is ready!
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides. This adds some flavor right from the start!
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook them until they are crispy. Once done, carefully remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel to drain. Keep the bacon fat in the skillet—it’s full of flavor!
4. Sear the Chicken:
Next, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the same skillet and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and delicious!
5. Make the Maple Garlic Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, maple syrup, and soy sauce. This sweet and savory mix is what makes the chicken so tasty!
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Pour the maple garlic mixture over the seared chicken breasts, making sure to coat them well.
7. Add the Bacon:
Crumble the crispy bacon over the top of the chicken. This adds that irresistible bacon flavor!
8. Bake the Chicken:
Now it’s time to bake! Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and let it bake for 15-20 minutes. Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color, and then it’s ready to serve!
Enjoy your flavorful Maple Garlic Bacon Chicken with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or a light salad! Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Yes! You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts if you prefer dark meat. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I Make This Dish in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! To do this, sear the chicken and cook the bacon as directed, then place everything in a slow cooker with the maple garlic mixture. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
Can I Use Store-Bought Maple Syrup?
Definitely! Store-bought maple syrup works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s pure maple syrup for the best flavor. If you’re using syrup with added sugars or flavors, it may alter the taste slightly.
