Bacon Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This bacon wrapped garlic parmesan chicken is always a winning crowd pleaser at our family gatherings The smoky crisp bacon stays juicy around tender chicken and every bite bursts with garlicky cheesy flavor thanks to the savory sauce on top If you need something special but easy for dinner or entertaining this recipe delivers every time

I first made this dish for a game day party and now everyone asks for it when we need a cozy comfort food dinner

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provide a juicy base and are easy to slice into tenders Choose fresh plump chicken for the best results
• Olive oil: keeps the chicken moist and helps the spice blend stick well to the meat Extra virgin offers a little more flavor
• Thick cut bacon: adds smoky richness and wraps snugly without burning Choose a good quality bacon for the crispiest edges
• Paprika: gives a slight warmth and a beautiful amber color Choose smoked for more depth
• Garlic powder and onion powder: build savory flavors quickly Use fresh jars for strongest taste
• Salt and black pepper: add essential seasoning Let yourself taste and season to your preference
• Garlic parmesan wing sauce: is the game changer bringing creaminess garlicky punch and bold flavor Find in the sauce aisle or try making your own

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry using paper towels This helps get that perfect golden color Slice each chicken breast lengthwise into strips an inch or so wide giving you classic chicken tender shapes Drizzle olive oil over the strips and really massage it in so every surface is coated well

Season the Chicken

Sprinkle paprika garlic powder onion powder salt and black pepper evenly over every piece Massage those spices right into the chicken pressing gently so the flavors stick well on every side

Wrap with Bacon

Take one bacon strip per chicken tender wrapping it snugly so the seam is underneath Place each wrapped piece into a large casserole dish The bacon helps the chicken stay juicy as it cooks

Add Sauce

Give the garlic parmesan wing sauce a good shake Drizzle it generously over the bacon wrapped chicken then use a pastry brush or spoon to coat every piece evenly This will make a delicious crust as it bakes

Bake

Pop the dish onto the center rack of your preheated oven at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Let the chicken bake for about twenty five to thirty minutes Check that the internal temperature of the thickest part hits one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit for safe juicy chicken

Broil for Crispiness

If you love crisp bacon finish the dish by broiling for two to three minutes Watch closely to avoid burning The top should look golden and bubbly from the sauce

Serve

Let the chicken rest in the pan just a few minutes before serving This keeps the juices in Every time I make this everyone goes for seconds

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My favorite part is slicing into the bubbly bacon crust and seeing all that steam swirl out The garlic parmesan topping reminds me of my youngest always sneaking extra sauce from the pan after dinner

Storage Tips

Leftover bacon wrapped chicken keeps well in the fridge for up to three days Store in an airtight container If you need to reheat cover with foil so the bacon does not dry out then warm in a low oven around three hundred degrees Fahrenheit

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have garlic parmesan wing sauce sub in a mix of melted butter grated parmesan and a spoonful of finely minced garlic For a lighter option swap thick cut turkey bacon For a spicier kick add crushed red pepper or a dash of cayenne to your spice blend

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chicken over a bed of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to keep things light My family also loves it paired with creamy mashed potatoes or soft warm dinner rolls for a true comfort meal

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Cultural and Historical Context

Wrapping meats in bacon is a classic technique in European cooking to lock in moisture Traditionally called barding it was used to cook game birds This recipe puts a modern twist on that tradition pairing easy everyday ingredients for a dish that feels both homey and special

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Massage olive oil and seasonings into the chicken before baking. Wrapping in bacon helps seal in the juices for moist results.

→ Can I use pre-marinated chicken?

Yes, but adjust the seasoning to prevent overpowering flavors. Skip additional salt if the marinade is salty.

→ What's the best type of bacon?

Thick-cut bacon works best for wrapping as it stays intact during baking and provides a satisfying crisp texture.

→ How can I tell if the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate the bacon-wrapped chicken up to a day ahead, then bake when ready to serve.

→ What side dishes complement this dish?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad pair well with the rich, savory flavors.