This Easy Maple Garlic Bacon Chicken is a tasty treat! It’s juicy chicken cooked with crispy bacon, sweet maple syrup, and a hint of garlic. Yum!
Honestly, who can resist bacon? I love how the sweet and salty flavors come together! Serve it with some veggies, and it’s a hit at our dinner table every time. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs, which are a bit more flavorful.
Bacon: Bacon adds a wonderful salty crunch. If you want a lighter version, turkey bacon can be a good substitute. Remember, it won’t get as crispy but still tastes nice.
Maple Syrup: This is what gives the dish that sweet flavor. If you’re out of maple syrup, honey can work well too, although it has a different taste. Agave syrup is another option if you want something vegan.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for that strong flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work, but I suggest using about half the amount since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but there are a few easy steps to get it just right!
- First, always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 165°F (74°C) for fully cooked chicken.
- When searing the chicken, ensure each side gets that nice golden brown color for flavor. About 3-4 minutes per side should do it.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking before cutting into it. This helps keep the juices locked in.
Easy Maple Garlic Bacon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of bacon
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Other Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep time and cooking. You’ll spend a few minutes cooking the bacon, pan-searing the chicken, and then a quick bake in the oven. It’s a delicious meal that comes together quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be hot and ready for the chicken when you’re done cooking on the stove.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides. This will add flavor to the chicken.
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 crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once they are crispy, take them out of the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess grease.
4. Sear the Chicken:
In the same skillet with the leftover bacon fat, carefully place the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This adds delicious flavor!
5. Add Bacon and Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, chop the crispy bacon into small pieces. Once the chicken is browned, sprinkle the chopped bacon over the chicken in the skillet. In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup and minced garlic. Pour this mixture over the chicken and bacon.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Now, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. You can check the internal temperature—it should be 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven (be careful, it will be hot!) and garnish your chicken with freshly chopped parsley. Serve it warm and enjoy the delicious flavors!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator first. This ensures even cooking and keeps the chicken juicy. Thawing overnight is best, or you can use the quick-thaw method by sealing the chicken in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup are great alternatives. Just keep in mind that honey has a stronger flavor, while agave is milder. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and bacon mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge (without the oven step). When you’re ready to cook, just add the maple syrup mixture and bake as directed. This makes it easy for meal prep!
