Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon

Indulge in the perfect harmony of sweet and savory with this Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon. Tender chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection, glazed with rich maple syrup, and topped with crunchy bacon bits. This dish is an excellent choice for a comforting dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The sweetness of maple syrup complements the savory notes of bacon and chicken.

• Simple Ingredients: Requires common pantry staples, making it convenient for weeknight dinners.

• Versatile Pairings: Pairs well with various sides, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes.

• Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, making it suitable for both casual and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

• 4 slices bacon, chopped

• ¼ cup maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • In a shallow dish, combine flour, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

   • Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.

2. Cook the Bacon:

   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy.

   • Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

   • Reserve about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.

3. Sear the Chicken:

   • Add olive oil and butter to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat.

   • Increase heat to medium-high and add the floured chicken breasts.

   • Sear each side for 4–5 minutes until golden brown.

4. Prepare the Glaze:

   • In a small bowl, mix maple syrup and soy sauce until well combined.

5. Glaze the Chicken:

   • Reduce heat to medium-low.

   • Pour the maple-soy mixture over the chicken in the skillet.

   • Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze has thickened.

6. Add the Bacon:

   • Sprinkle the cooked bacon over the glazed chicken.

   • Simmer uncovered for an additional 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.

7. Serve:

   • Plate the chicken, spooning extra glaze and bacon bits over the top.

   • Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a subtle heat.

• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary into the glaze for added depth.

• Alternative Proteins: Substitute chicken with turkey cutlets or pork chops for a different take.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and glaze separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the glaze has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.

Is it necessary to use smoked paprika?

While smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor, you can substitute with regular paprika or omit it altogether.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the glaze and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before using.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad complement the flavors of the maple-glazed chicken.

Can I use turkey bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a leaner alternative. Note that it may not crisp up as much as regular bacon.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I double the recipe?

Certainly. Double all ingredients proportionally, and use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon

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• Author: Olivia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4-servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon is a savory-sweet dinner that brings together juicy chicken breasts, a golden maple glaze, and crispy bacon bits for a comforting and irresistible meal. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

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Instructions

• In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Dredge chicken breasts in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.

• In the same skillet, add the floured chicken breasts. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.

• In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and soy sauce.

• Pour the maple mixture into the skillet over the chicken and let simmer for 2–3 minutes, turning the chicken to coat in the glaze.

• Return crispy bacon to the pan and sprinkle over the chicken. Cook for another minute until everything is heated through and coated in the glaze.

• Serve warm with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

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Notes

• You can substitute chicken thighs for juicier results.

• Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

• Pairs well with a side of sautéed greens or cornbread.