Bacon-Wrapped Glazed Chicken Bites

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
• 10–12 slices bacon, cut into thirds
• ½ cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top if available.
2. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season them with paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
3. Wrap each chicken piece with a small strip of bacon. Place the seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
4. In a small bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
5. Brush about half of the glaze generously over the bacon-wrapped chicken bites.
6. Bake for 15 minutes.
7. Remove the tray from the oven and carefully turn the chicken bites.
8. Brush them generously with the remaining glaze.
9. Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the bacon is cooked.
10. For extra caramelization, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end. Watch closely because the sugary glaze can burn quickly.
11. Let the chicken bites rest for about 3–5 minutes.
12. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Tips

Use regular-cut bacon rather than very thick bacon so it becomes crisp before the chicken overcooks.

Cut the chicken into similar-size pieces for even cooking.

For crispier bacon, partially cook the bacon for a few minutes before wrapping the chicken.

Do not apply all the glaze at the beginning. Adding another layer near the end creates a thicker, stickier finish.

For extra heat, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the glaze.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Bacon-Wrapped Glazed Chicken Bites with creamy mashed potatoes, coleslaw, corn on the cob, baked beans, roasted vegetables, potato wedges, ranch dip, or extra barbecue sauce.

They also make a great appetizer for parties, game days, and family gatherings.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer until hot and slightly crisp.

Cooked chicken bites can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutritional Information

Approximate per serving:

• Calories: 330–380 kcal
• Protein: 30–34 g
• Carbohydrates: 16–20 g
• Fat: 16–20 g
• Sugar: 12–15 g

Nutrition varies depending on the bacon and barbecue sauce used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 12–16 minutes, turning halfway and brushing with glaze during cooking.

Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes. Wrap the chicken in bacon and refrigerate covered for up to 24 hours. Add the glaze just before baking.

Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes. Boneless chicken thighs are especially juicy and work very well.

How do I keep the bacon from falling off?
Place each bite seam-side down or secure it with a toothpick.

Can I use another glaze?
Absolutely. Honey garlic, teriyaki, maple BBQ, or spicy buffalo glaze all work well.

How do I know they are fully cooked?
The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) in the center.