Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps
Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps are a delicious combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a touch of sweetness all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. The mix of savory and…
Tip: save now, cook later.Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps are a delicious combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a touch of sweetness all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. The mix of savory and sweet flavors makes each bite really satisfying and fun to eat. Plus, the bacon adds a nice crunch that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken inside.
I love making these wraps when I want something quick but feel like a treat. My favorite part is brushing the chicken with a little honey or brown sugar glaze before cooking—it gives the whole wrap a gentle sweetness that everyone seems to enjoy. It’s such a simple twist but makes a big difference.
These wraps are great for lunch or dinner, and I often serve them with a fresh salad or some crunchy veggies on the side. Sometimes I even add a little cheese or avocado for extra creaminess. They’re easy to pack for a picnic or take to work, making them a go-to meal that’s both tasty and convenient.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and stay tender. You can also use chicken thighs for juicier results.
Bacon: Choose thin or regular cut bacon for wrapping. Turkey bacon works as a leaner substitute, but it might not get as crispy.
Brown sugar: This adds sweetness and helps caramelize the bacon. If you don’t have brown sugar, honey or maple syrup can be used in the glaze for a similar effect.
Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth without needing a grill. If it’s unavailable, regular paprika or a touch of chili powder works well.
Honey and Dijon mustard glaze (optional): This mix gives a nice tangy sweetness. You can skip it if you prefer the simpler brown sugar flavor or replace honey with agave or maple syrup.
How to Get Bacon Crispy Without Overcooking the Chicken?
Balancing crispy bacon with perfectly cooked chicken can be tricky. Here’s how I do it:
- Wrap the chicken with bacon snugly and secure with toothpicks to keep everything tight together.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) so the bacon slowly crisps as the chicken cooks through.
- If the bacon isn’t crispy enough after the chicken is done, switch to broil for 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Rest the wraps a few minutes after baking; this lets juices redistribute and keeps the bacon from feeling too soft.
Following these tips will help you get that perfect combo of juicy chicken and crisp bacon every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – big enough to hold all wraps without crowding so they cook evenly.
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper – for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Mixing bowl – to toss chicken with spices quickly and evenly.
- Pastry brush – great for spreading the honey-Dijon glaze smoothly.
- Toothpicks – essential for keeping the bacon wrapped tightly around the chicken.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check that the chicken is safely cooked without drying out.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey breast pieces for a leaner, mild-tasting option that pairs well with bacon’s flavor.
- Add a slice of cheddar or pepper jack cheese inside each wrap for creamy, melty goodness.
- Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper with the brown sugar for a spicy kick that balances the sweetness.
- Include a leaf of fresh spinach or baby arugula inside the wrap for a bit of fresh, peppery green crunch.
Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Wraps:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 strips of bacon
- Toothpicks for securing bacon wraps
For the Seasoning:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional Glaze:
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
For Garnish:
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing and seasoning takes about 10 minutes. Baking the wraps requires around 25 to 30 minutes. If you want extra crispy bacon, add a few more minutes under the broiler. In total, expect about 40 minutes from start to serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Seasoning:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to make cleanup easier. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Season and Wrap:
Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces in the seasoning mix until they’re evenly coated. Cut each bacon strip in half, then wrap each seasoned chicken piece with a half strip of bacon. Secure each wrap with a toothpick so it stays tight while cooking.
3. Optional Glaze:
If you want a sweet and tangy touch, mix honey and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Brush this glaze over the bacon-wrapped chicken pieces before baking.
4. Bake the Wraps:
Arrange the wrapped chicken on the baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (at least 165°F or 74°C internally) and the bacon is crispy. For extra crispy bacon, broil them for 2-3 minutes at the end, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
5. Rest and Serve:
Remove the wraps from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. Garnish with fresh chopped rosemary if you like, and serve warm. These wraps make great appetizers or a fun main dish with sides you enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before preparing. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the seasoning stick and ensures the bacon crisps nicely.
Can I Make These Wraps Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bacon-wrapped chicken pieces a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the fridge. When ready, bake them as directed. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the chicken is chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover wraps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to keep the bacon crispy and the chicken juicy.
What Sides Pair Well with Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps?
These wraps are delicious alongside fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or even mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, try serving with steamed green beans or a simple coleslaw to balance the rich flavors.