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A platter of juicy BBQ Bacon Chicken breasts topped with melted cheese and crispy bacon, garnished with green onions.

BBQ Bacon Wrapped Chicken

Juicy chicken breasts are seasoned, seared, then wrapped in crispy bacon and lacquered with a sticky, bubbly BBQ glaze. This easy skillet-to-oven recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss, making it a perfect weeknight champion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 560
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 6 ounces each
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded Colby Jack or sharp cheddar cheese optional
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet
  • Small mixing bowl (for spices)
  • Small mixing bowl (for glaze)
  • Tongs
  • Basting Brush
  • Meat thermometer
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Season the chicken generously on all sides with this spice blend.
  2. Place the bacon slices in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3-4 minutes, flipping once, until some fat has rendered but the bacon is still very flexible. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Pour off all but one tablespoon of the bacon grease from the skillet.
  3. Return the skillet with the reserved bacon grease to medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until a golden-brown crust forms. Remove the skillet from the heat.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and brown sugar until smooth. Brush a layer of this sauce mixture over the top of each seared chicken breast in the skillet.
  5. Wrap two slices of the partially cooked bacon around each chicken breast, tucking the ends underneath. Generously brush the remaining BBQ sauce mixture all over the top and sides of the bacon-wrapped chicken.
  6. Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The bacon should be crispy and the sauce bubbly.
  7. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the chicken during the last 3-5 minutes of baking and cook until the cheese is completely melted and gooey.
  8. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving.

Notes

For best results, use thick-cut bacon as it will not burn before the chicken is cooked. Do not skip the searing step; it creates the Maillard reaction which is essential for a deep, savory flavor. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F without overcooking. For variations, try adding a slice of pineapple or a few jalapeño slices under the bacon before baking. You can also substitute brown sugar with maple syrup or honey in the glaze.