Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon
Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon
Introduction
Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken and bacon with the sweetness of maple syrup. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a weekend gathering. The combination of flavors will leave your taste buds wanting more, and it’s simple enough for anyone to make.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to try this recipe. Firstly, it is a crowd-pleaser; everyone loves chicken, and bacon always adds extra flavor. The maple glaze gives it a unique sweet twist that pairs well with the savory elements of the dish. Additionally, the recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, meaning you won’t have to run around looking for hard-to-find items. Best of all, it takes less than an hour from start to finish!
How to Make Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon
Making Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon is straightforward. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Then remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
- In the same skillet, add the olive oil, and sear the seasoned chicken breasts on both sides for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the maple glaze evenly over the top.
- Crumble the crispy bacon over the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme before serving. This dish goes great with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes!
How to Serve Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon
Serve Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon hot from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. For an extra touch, drizzle some additional maple syrup over the dish right before serving.
How to Store Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish can last for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken; using a meat thermometer is a great way to check for doneness.
- You can easily add vegetables to the baking dish for a complete meal. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes make fantastic options.
- If you prefer more sweetness, feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup to your liking.
Variation
You can try using different types of mustard or adding crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick. Additionally, substituting chicken thighs for breasts can add extra moisture and flavor!
FAQs
-
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use turkey breast or thighs. Just ensure they are cooked through to the proper internal temperature. -
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any gluten ingredients. Just be sure the bacon and mustard you use are gluten-free. -
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken in the maple glaze a few hours before cooking. Just be sure to cook it within the same day for best results.
Enjoy making and sharing your Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon with family and friends!
Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Then remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
- In the same skillet, add the olive oil, and sear the seasoned chicken breasts on both sides for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Baking
- Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the maple glaze evenly over the top.
- Crumble the crispy bacon over the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serving
- Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme before serving. Serve hot with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
- For an extra touch, drizzle some additional maple syrup over the dish right before serving.
