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Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites - Crispy, Juicy, Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 pound thin-cut bacon, sliced into thirds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for caramelization)
  • Toothpicks (soaked in water for 10 minutes)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce or sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • Ranch, blue cheese, chipotle mayo, or BBQ sauce for dipping
  • Fresh chopped parsley or green onion for garnish

Method
 

  1. Prep the pan: Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and set a wire rack on top. This helps the bacon crisp and keeps cleanup easy.
  2. Season the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. If you like a hint of sweetness, add the brown sugar and toss again.
  3. Wrap with bacon: Cut bacon strips into thirds. Wrap each piece around a chicken cube and secure with a soaked toothpick. Place seam-side down on the rack.
  4. Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway. The bacon should be browned and crisp, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Make the glaze (optional): While they bake, whisk honey (or maple), hot sauce, soy sauce, and vinegar. Warm in a small pan or microwave until fluid.
  6. Glaze and finish: In the last 3–5 minutes of baking, brush the bites lightly with glaze. Return to the oven so it sets and gets shiny.
  7. Rest and serve: Let the bites rest 3 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onion and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.