Maple Bacon Glazed Chicken Bites

A Sweet and Savory Appetizer to Impress

Maple Bacon Glazed Chicken Bites combine the irresistible flavors of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a luscious maple glaze. This dish is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a fantastic appetizer for parties, game days, or even a quick and flavorful dinner. The smoky bacon enhances the natural juiciness of the chicken, while the maple syrup adds a caramelized finish that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a delicious weeknight meal, these bites are a crowd-pleaser.
• Simple and Quick – With just a handful of ingredients, this dish comes together effortlessly in about 30 minutes.
• Amazing Flavor Combination – The sweetness of maple syrup, the saltiness of bacon, and the tenderness of chicken create an unbeatable trio.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Toothpicks

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Bacon

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Cut each bacon slice in half, ensuring they are the right size to wrap around the chicken pieces.

Step 3: Wrap the Chicken

Wrap each piece of chicken with a half-slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. Place them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Make the Maple Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.

Step 5: Glaze and Bake

Brush each bacon-wrapped chicken bite generously with the maple glaze. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, brushing with additional glaze halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with extra glaze for dipping, if desired.

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the glaze for a fiery twist.
• Honey Alternative – Swap out maple syrup for honey for a slightly different sweetness profile.
• Brown Sugar Bacon – Sprinkle a bit of brown sugar over the bacon before baking for extra caramelization.
• Cheese-Stuffed – Insert a small piece of cheddar or cream cheese inside the chicken before wrapping it in bacon.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 as an appetizer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, use an air fryer for a few minutes to crisp up the bacon.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the bacon from unwrapping during baking?

Secure each bacon-wrapped chicken bite with a toothpick, ensuring the seam side is placed downward on the baking sheet.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the chicken bites up to a day in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and bake when ready.

What dipping sauces go well with this dish?

Honey mustard, spicy sriracha mayo, or a classic barbecue sauce all complement these bites beautifully.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes, but turkey bacon tends to be leaner and may not crisp up as well. Consider baking for a few extra minutes for better texture.

How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Remove from the oven once it reaches 165°F.

Can I cook these on the stovetop instead of baking?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook them in batches over medium heat in a skillet, turning frequently to ensure even cooking.

Is it possible to make these in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.

What type of maple syrup should I use?

Opt for pure maple syrup rather than artificial pancake syrups for the best flavor and caramelization.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor, though they may take slightly longer to cook.

How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

Brush the glaze on in layers and avoid excessive sugar buildup on the baking sheet. Lining with parchment paper helps prevent burning.

Conclusion

Maple Bacon Glazed Chicken Bites are the perfect combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. Whether you’re making them for a party, as a snack, or even a dinner side, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. With their easy preparation and versatile variations, this recipe is a must-try for any occasion. Enjoy!

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