Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken: 4 Flavorful Recipes You’ll Love

Introduction

Hello there, fellow food lovers! If you’re searching for a dish that combines the irresistible smokiness of bacon with the sweetness of brown sugar, then you’re in for a treat. This Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken , crafted by Chef Lily Hanna, is a game-changer for your dinner table—or even your next weekend brunch. Imagine juicy chicken thighs wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in a sticky-sweet glaze that practically melts in your mouth. Doesn’t that sound amazing?

This recipe stands out because of its adaptability. Whether you’re an experienced home chef or just starting out, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s adaptable to both oven-baked and stovetop cooking methods, so you can choose what works best for your kitchen setup. The savory-sweet combination of bacon and brown sugar creates a taste experience that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

As someone who loves experimenting with flavors, I’ve found that this recipe strikes the perfect balance between convenience and indulgence. So, are you ready to dive into the world of bacon-wrapped goodness? Let’s get started!

(Psst… Don’t worry if you’re new to cooking with bacon—Chef Lily Hanna has included some pro tips to ensure your first attempt is nothing short of spectacular!)

Ingredients

Before we jump into the step-by-step process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. Here’s what goes into making this delicious dish:

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, depending on preference)
• 8 slices of thick-cut bacon
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for stovetop method)
• Toothpicks (to secure bacon around chicken)

Optional Additions:

• Add aromatic herbs such as thyme or rosemary to elevate the fragrance.
• A touch of apple cider vinegar adds a subtle tanginess to the glaze.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s break down the process into simple steps. Follow along carefully, and soon you’ll be enjoying this mouthwatering dish!

Method 1: Oven-Baked Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken

1. Preheat Your Oven : Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a sheet of parchment paper or aluminum foil on a baking tray to simplify cleanup.
2. Prep the Chicken: Use paper towels to gently blot the chicken thighs, removing any excess moisture.
3.  This helps the bacon adhere better and ensures crispiness.
4. Wrap the Bacon: Take a strip of bacon and position a chicken thigh at the edge before rolling it up.. Roll the chicken tightly in the bacon, securing it with toothpicks if necessary. Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces.
5. Mix the Glaze : In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
6. Coat the Chicken : Brush the glaze generously over each bacon-wrapped chicken piece, ensuring even coverage.
7. Bake : Place the prepared chicken on the lined baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow air circulation. Bake for 30 minutes, then broil for an additional 3-5 minutes to achieve a golden, caramelized finish. Monitor the chicken closely while broiling to ensure it doesn’t overcook or burn.
8. Let the Chicken Rest: After removing the chicken from the oven, allow it to rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices before serving.
9.  Discard the toothpicks before plating.

Method 2: Stovetop Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken

1. Heat the Pan : Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the Chicken : Add the bacon-wrapped chicken to the skillet, seam side down. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is golden brown.
3. Apply the Glaze : Once the chicken is seared, reduce the heat to medium-low. Use a brush to apply the brown sugar glaze evenly over each piece.
4. Finish Cooking : Continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and the glaze has caramelized.
5. Rest and Serve : Transfer the chicken to a plate, let it rest for a few minutes, and serve hot.

Pro Tips and Variations

Here are some expert tips and creative variations from Chef Lily Hanna to help you take this dish to the next level:

Pro Tips:

• Choose Quality Ingredients : Opt for thick-cut bacon and fresh chicken for the best results.
• Don’t Overcrowd : Whether baking or frying, ensure enough space between the chicken pieces for proper cooking and browning.
• Use Toothpicks Wisely : Secure the bacon tightly but avoid piercing the chicken too much to retain juices.
• Adjust Seasonings : Taste the glaze before applying it to the chicken and adjust the sweetness or spiciness as needed.

Variations:

• Add Veggies : Toss chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms onto the baking sheet for a one-pan meal.
• Swap Proteins : Try using pork chops or turkey tenderloins instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Experiment with Spices : Incorporate chili flakes, ground ginger, or cinnamon for unique flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing with sides. Here are some ideas to complement your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken:

• Roasted Vegetables : Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or potatoes roasted with olive oil and herbs make a perfect match.
• Grain Bowls : Serve the chicken atop quinoa, rice, or couscous for added texture and nutrition.
• Salads : Pair with a fresh mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette for a lighter option.
• Starches : Mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or cornbread are excellent choices to soak up the flavorful juices.

For presentation, arrange the chicken neatly on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of extra glaze. Guests will be impressed by how restaurant-worthy this dish looks!

FAQs

To address any lingering questions, here’s a quick FAQ section brought to you by Chef Lily Hanna:

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
   Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well, though they may require less cooking time. Be sure not to overcook them to avoid dryness.
2. How long can this dish be stored in the refrigerator?
   Keep any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
   Yes, you can freeze the uncooked, bacon-wrapped chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
4. Can I make this dish without bacon?
   While bacon adds a unique flavor, you can omit it and simply coat the chicken in the glaze for a vegetarian-friendly version.
5. What’s the best way to reheat leftover chicken?
   For optimal results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Conclusion

There you have it—a delightful recipe for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. Thanks to Chef Lily Hanna’s expertise, you now have everything you need to create a savory-sweet masterpiece that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. Whether you opt for the oven-baked or stovetop method, this dish promises to impress everyone who tries it.

So why wait? Prepare your ingredients, get ready, and dive into the cooking process. And don’t forget to share your creations with Chef Lily Hanna—we’d love to see how yours turns out!