If you’re looking for a mouthwatering appetizer or a satisfying main dish, look no further than Sweet and Spicy Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Chicken Strips. These succulent chicken strips, wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in a sweet and spicy barbecue sauce, are sure to please any crowd. Perfect for game days, parties, or a simple family dinner, this recipe combines the smoky flavor of bacon with tender chicken and a delicious glaze that packs a punch. Let’s dive into how to prepare this delightful dish!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Strips:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 8-10 slices of bacon (thicker cut for extra crispiness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sweet and Spicy BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional for tanginess)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the bacon gets crispy while the chicken cooks through.
- Season the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor of the chicken itself, allowing it to stand out even more when combined with the bacon and sauce.
Step 2: Wrap the Chicken
- Wrap in Bacon: Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each chicken strip, ensuring the bacon overlaps slightly. The bacon should completely encase the chicken for maximum flavor. If you have extra long slices, you can cut them in half to make it easier to wrap.
- Secure with Toothpicks: Place the bacon-wrapped chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If necessary, use toothpicks to secure the ends of the bacon in place, ensuring they don’t unravel during cooking.
Step 3: Make the BBQ Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the barbecue sauce, honey, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer: Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired. You can add more honey for sweetness or more hot sauce for extra heat, depending on your preference.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Coat the Chicken: Brush the prepared BBQ sauce generously over the bacon-wrapped chicken strips. Make sure each piece is well-coated, as this will contribute to the final flavor and glaze.
- Bake in the Oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, brush more BBQ sauce on the chicken for added flavor and moisture.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken is ready when the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). If the bacon is not as crispy as you’d like, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serve
- Rest and Remove Toothpicks: Once cooked, remove the chicken strips from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, ensuring a juicy bite. If you used toothpicks, carefully remove them before serving.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the Sweet and Spicy Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Chicken Strips warm. They pair wonderfully with a side of ranch dressing or extra BBQ sauce for dipping. For a colorful presentation, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
Conclusion
These Sweet and Spicy Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Chicken Strips are not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors, along with the crispy texture of the bacon, creates a dish that is truly irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself to a delicious meal, these chicken strips will be a hit. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best experience, and prepare for the compliments to roll in!
