Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate crowd-pleaser that will have everyone begging for more! These Sweet and Spicy Bacon Chicken Bites are about to become your new obsession - a perfect blend of crispy, juicy, and flavor-packed bites that will make your mouth water from the first glance. Imagine tender chicken cubes wrapped in crispy bacon, coated in a mouthwatering blend of brown sugar and spices that creates an irresistible sweet and spicy explosion in every single bite. Whether you're hosting a game day party, looking for a show-stopping appetizer, or craving a delicious protein-packed snack, these chicken bites are guaranteed to be the star of any meal!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cut the chicken breast into uniform 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create a seasoning mix.
- Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning adheres well and promotes better browning.
- Roll each chicken cube in the seasoning mix, coating thoroughly and evenly on all sides.
- Cut each bacon slice into thirds, creating shorter pieces that will wrap around the chicken cubes.
- Wrap each seasoned chicken cube with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through to ensure even cooking and crispy bacon.
- Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Transfer to a serving platter and serve hot as an appetizer or main dish.
Tips
- • For maximum flavor, let the seasoned chicken sit for 10-15 minutes before wrapping in bacon to allow the spices to penetrate the meat. • Use thick-cut bacon for a more substantial wrap and crispier texture. • Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give each bite enough space to ensure crispy edges. • Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken every time. • For extra crispiness, broil the bites for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking. • Make ahead tip: You can prepare these bites and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, making them perfect for meal prep or party planning. • Experiment with different spice combinations like smoked paprika or cayenne for varied flavor profiles.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
