Maple Garlic Bacon Chicken

This maple garlic bacon chicken transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a savory-sweet dinner sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds. The combination of crispy bacon wrapped around juicy chicken, all glazed with a maple garlic sauce, creates an irresistible main dish that looks impressive but requires minimal effort.

I first made this recipe when my in-laws came for an unexpected visit, and I was scrambling to find something that would wow them without keeping me in the kitchen all evening. Now it's my go-to dish whenever I want to make someone feel special without spending hours cooking.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: choose ones that are similar in size for even cooking
• Bacon: select a good quality bacon with a nice balance of fat and meat for optimal flavor
• Pure maple syrup: real maple syrup makes all the difference compared to artificial versions
• Fresh garlic: minced cloves provide aromatic depth that powdered garlic cannot match
• Olive oil: helps create a silky marinade that coats the chicken perfectly
• Soy sauce: adds umami depth and saltiness that balances the sweetness
• Dijon mustard: brings a subtle tang that cuts through the richness
• Salt and pepper: these basic seasonings enhance all the other flavors
• Fresh parsley: adds a bright pop of color and freshness to the finished dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This moderate temperature allows the chicken to cook through while the bacon gets crispy without burning. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before putting in the chicken.

Create the Maple Garlic Marinade:

In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, minced garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Whisk thoroughly until well blended. This marinade is the star of the show, providing a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors that will caramelize beautifully in the oven.

Season and Wrap the Chicken:

Season each chicken breast generously with salt and pepper, ensuring both sides are covered. Take two slices of bacon and wrap them around each chicken breast, slightly overlapping the bacon to ensure complete coverage. The bacon not only adds flavor but helps keep the chicken moist during cooking.

Sear the Wrapped Chicken:

Heat an ovenproof skillet over medium heat until hot. Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side. This crucial step renders some fat from the bacon and creates a crispy exterior that will hold up to the marinade.

Add the Marinade and Bake:

Pour the prepared maple garlic marinade over the seared chicken breasts, making sure each piece gets coated. Transfer the entire skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the bacon is crispy and caramelized.

Rest and Garnish:

Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum juiciness. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Save

The first time I made this recipe, I accidentally doubled the garlic and discovered it was actually even better that way. Now I always use extra garlic for a more pronounced savory note that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup perfectly. My family calls this my happy accident chicken because that mistake led to our favorite version of this dish.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast. The meat should also appear white throughout with no pink areas.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Wrap the chicken in bacon and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also prepare the maple garlic marinade in advance and store it separately. When ready to cook, bring the chicken to room temperature for about 20 minutes, then sear and bake as directed.

→ What can I substitute for maple syrup?

If you don't have maple syrup, you can substitute honey or brown sugar dissolved in a little water. Each will provide sweetness, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. Honey will give a floral note, while brown sugar offers a more molasses-like taste.

→ How do I prevent the bacon from unwrapping during cooking?

To prevent the bacon from unwrapping during cooking, secure it with toothpicks before searing. Insert the toothpicks horizontally through the bacon and into the chicken. Just remember to remove them before serving! Alternatively, wrapping the bacon tightly and starting with the seam side down when searing can help it stay in place.

→ What sides pair well with this chicken dish?

This maple garlic bacon chicken pairs wonderfully with starchy sides that can absorb the delicious sauce, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or quinoa. For vegetables, consider roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or a simple salad. The sweet and savory flavors of the chicken also complement roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well as a substitute for chicken breasts in this recipe. Thighs tend to be more forgiving and stay juicier, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Still aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they're fully cooked.