Have you ever craved that perfect combination of juicy chicken and crispy bacon? You’re not alone. Many home cooks find themselves searching for a delicious yet simple way to elevate their grilling game.
Key Takeaways
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for optimal flavor and juiciness when making bacon-wrapped chicken on the grill.
- Choose thick-cut bacon, such as hickory-smoked or peppered, for a crispy texture and rich flavor.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance the taste; a simple blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices works well.
- Employ both direct and indirect cooking methods on the grill for even cooking, ensuring a nice sear without burning the bacon.
- Monitor the internal temperature to 165°F to guarantee that the chicken is fully cooked and the bacon is crispy.
- Pair the dish with side offerings like grilled vegetables, Caesar salad, or sauces like barbecue and garlic aioli for an elevated meal experience.
Ingredients Needed
You’ll need a few essential ingredients to make bacon-wrapped chicken on the grill. Gathering these items ensures a delicious outcome that satisfies your cravings.
Chicken Selection
For this recipe, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken breasts provide a lean option with a mild flavor, while thighs offer a juicier, richer taste. Aim for pieces weighing 6-8 ounces each for even cooking. Consider organic or free-range chicken for better quality and flavor.
Bacon Types
Choose thick-cut bacon for optimal crispiness and flavor. Bacon from higher-quality pork delivers that desirable smokiness. Popular options include hickory-smoked or peppered bacon. Approximately 2-3 strips of bacon per chicken piece should provide ample coverage.
Seasonings and Marinades
Seasoned or marinated chicken enhances flavor. Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for a simple blend. For a marinade, mix olive oil, lemon juice, and your choice of herbs, such as rosemary or thyme. Marinate for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor penetration. Always adjust based on personal preference for spice and taste.
Preparation Steps
Preparing bacon-wrapped chicken on the grill involves a few straightforward steps. By following these guidelines, you’ll create a delicious dish that shines at any gathering.
Preparing the Chicken
- Choose Chicken: Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best results.
- Trim Fat: Remove excess fat from the chicken to promote even cooking.
- Pound Chicken: Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken to an even thickness, about ½ inch, ensuring uniform cooking.
Wrapping with Bacon
- Select Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for added flavor and crispiness.
- Wrap Chicken: Place 2-3 strips of bacon over each piece of chicken. Start at one end and wrap the bacon tightly, overlapping as you go.
- Secure with Toothpicks: Use toothpicks to secure the bacon ends to the chicken, preventing them from unraveling during grilling.
- Prepare Marinade: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs for a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the wrapped chicken in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes
- Drain Excess Marinade: Before grilling, remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess liquid drip off, allowing for better browning on the grill.
Following these preparation steps makes for a well-seasoned and delightful bacon-wrapped chicken ready for the grill.
Grilling Techniques
Grilling bacon-wrapped chicken requires precise techniques for the best results. Focus on preheating the grill, choosing effective cooking methods, and monitoring the internal temperature.
Preheating the Grill
Preheating the grill ensures even cooking. Set your grill to medium heat, around 350°F to 400°F. Allow it to preheat for 10-15 minutes. A properly heated grill prevents the chicken from sticking and promotes a nice sear on the bacon.
Cooking Methods
Utilize direct and indirect cooking methods for perfect bacon-wrapped chicken.
- Direct Cooking: Start by searing the chicken directly over the heat source for 2-3 minutes per side. This step creates a crispy bacon exterior and enhances flavor.
- Indirect Cooking: Move the chicken to a cooler side of the grill, closing the lid. Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes. This method cooks the chicken through without burning the bacon.
Consider using a grill basket or skewers to prevent the chicken pieces from falling apart while cooking.
Monitoring Internal Temperature
Monitoring the internal temperature is crucial to ensure doneness. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. This temperature guarantees that both the chicken is fully cooked and the bacon is safely crispy.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Resting allows juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, flavorful bites.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your bacon-wrapped chicken with delicious side dishes and sauces. Pairing these will elevate your meal and impress your guests.
Side Dishes
- Grilled Vegetables: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. Toss them in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill alongside the chicken for a colorful plate.
- Caesar Salad: A refreshing Caesar salad complements the richness of bacon. Use crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing.
- Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes with butter, sour cream, and chives. Their creamy texture balances the crispy chicken.
- Rice Pilaf: Choose fluffy rice pilaf with herbs or a blend of wild rice. Its subtle flavor pairs well with savory chicken.
- Barbecue Sauce: Brush your chicken with barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of grilling. It adds sweetness and caramelization.
- Garlic Aioli: Serve a garlic aioli on the side for dipping. Combine mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a dash of salt for a creamy, flavorful sauce.
- Spicy Mustard: Pair your chicken with spicy mustard on the side. This tangy option cuts through the richness of the bacon.
- Honey Mustard: Mix equal parts honey and Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy dip. It’s a crowd-pleaser that enhances the overall flavor.
Conclusion
Grilling bacon-wrapped chicken is a fantastic way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort. With the right ingredients and techniques you can create a dish that’s both juicy and crispy. Remember to keep an eye on the grill temperature and the internal chicken temperature for the best results.
After letting the chicken rest you’ll be ready to serve a delicious meal that’s sure to be a hit. Pair it with your favorite sides and sauces for a complete experience. Enjoy every bite of your flavorful creation and happy grilling!
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of chicken should I use for bacon-wrapped chicken on the grill?
For optimal flavor and cooking, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. These cuts are perfect for wrapping in bacon, ensuring juicy results and easy handling on the grill.
How much bacon do I need for each piece of chicken?
It’s recommended to use 2-3 strips of thick-cut bacon per chicken piece. This amount guarantees a crispy exterior and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
What seasonings should I use to marinate the chicken?
A simple blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika works well. Alternatively, you can create a marinade using olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs to intensify the chicken’s flavor.
How do I prepare the chicken before grilling?
Start by trimming excess fat and pounding the chicken to an even thickness. Wrap the chicken tightly with bacon, securing it with toothpicks. Marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling for added taste.
What grilling techniques should I use for the best bacon-wrapped chicken?
Preheat your grill to medium heat (350°F to 400°F). Use direct cooking for a crispy exterior and indirect cooking to thoroughly cook the chicken without burning the bacon. Monitor the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F.
How long should the chicken rest before serving?
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and flavorful bites that enhance the overall dining experience.
What side dishes pair well with bacon-wrapped chicken?
Consider serving grilled vegetables, Caesar salad, baked potatoes, or rice pilaf. These dishes complement the richness of bacon-wrapped chicken and create a well-rounded meal.
What sauces go well with bacon-wrapped chicken?
Brush the chicken with barbecue sauce, serve garlic aioli for dipping, or offer spicy or honey mustard for added flavor. These sauces can elevate your dish and impress your guests.
