Wrap, bake, and enjoy this simple, juicy, and irresistibly crisp Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breast!
Chicken breast is the ultimate blank canvas in the kitchen. There are so many ways to prepare it—grilled, baked, breaded, fried, skewered, or tossed onto a salad. No matter how you prepare it, someone will call that dish their favorite. But let’s be honest—chicken breast on its own can sometimes feel a little plain.
That’s where bacon steps in. Like a classic leather jacket or the perfect pair of jeans, bacon instantly upgrades anything it touches. It’s the flavor-packed sidekick that turns a simple meal into something crave-worthy. This bacon-wrapped chicken breast takes tender, juicy chicken and wraps it in smoky, crispy bacon, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Seasoned with garlic, onion, paprika, salt, and pepper, each bite is rich, savory, and just a little smoky—like a backyard barbecue with none of the fuss. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or slicing it up for salads or wraps, this is one chicken dinner you won’t ever get bored with!
Is Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breast Healthy?
When it comes to food, balance is key, and that applies to bacon-wrapped chicken breast, too. Chicken breast is known for being a high-protein option, providing essential vitamins and minerals. Adding bacon changes the nutritional profile by increasing the saturated fat and sodium content. If that’s a concern, you could use less bacon or opt for a low-fat option, such as turkey bacon. You could also omit the salt, since the bacon adds enough flavor.
For those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, this dish aligns well since it is naturally low in carbohydrates and rich in protein. As with any meal, portion size and overall dietary balance play an important role in making it part of a healthy diet. Add some greens and a whole-grain to make this a well-balanced meal.
The Right Bacon Makes The Difference
The right bacon makes all the difference when wrapping chicken breast. Thin-cut bacon works best because it crisps up more easily without overcooking the chicken. Thick-cut bacon takes longer to render and can leave you with a chewy, undercooked outer layer or dry out the chicken before it gets crispy. Look for bacon with a good balance of fat and meat—too much fat can make the dish greasy, while very lean bacon won’t wrap as well and may dry out. To avoid soggy bacon, wrap it snugly around the chicken without overlapping too much, allowing air to circulate for even cooking. For the best results, bake at the temperature directed, which helps render the fat quickly while keeping the chicken juicy. A brief broil at the end can add extra crispness without compromising the tenderness of the chicken.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you need to store leftover bacon-wrapped chicken breast, let the chicken breast cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw the bacon-wrapped chicken breast overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, put the bacon-wrapped chicken breast in the oven at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Bacon-wrapped chicken breast goes with a wide variety of sides. I love serving it with vibrant Turmeric Rice, savory Rice And Cabbage, or a sweet bowl of Corn Rice. Another dish that pairs beautifully with bacon-wrapped chicken breast is this Butternut Squash Mac And Cheese. Go pasta-free with this Cauliflower Mac And Cheese, or this simple Cauliflower Cheese.
I also love pairing my bacon-wrapped chicken breast with Garlic Brussels Sprouts or Roasted Brussels Sprouts And Butternut Squash, along with a creamy side of Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8-12 slices bacon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Rinse the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. (Clean out your sink so it doesn't get contaminated!)
- Mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a small bowl. Coat the chicken breasts with olive oil and then with the seasoning mixture.
- Wrap each chicken breast with 2-3 slices of bacon, ensuring the bacon covers most of the chicken and the ends are tucked under.
- Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts on a foil-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F and the bacon is crispy.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
Can you make it a day ahead of time to cook the following day
Hey Mindy, you can prepare the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Then follow the instructions on how to cook them.