Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon Recipe

This Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors. The crispy bacon adds a crunchy texture to the juicy, maple-glazed chicken, creating a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress!

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breast fillets

• 1/2 cup flour

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

• 4 slices bacon, chopped

• 1/4 cup maple syrup

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 2 tbsp butter, divided

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breast fillets with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Lightly coat each fillet in flour, shaking off any excess.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken fillets and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 4: Make the Maple Glaze

1. Lower the heat to medium and add the maple syrup, soy sauce, and garlic powder to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Bacon

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, turning the chicken fillets to coat them evenly in the maple glaze. Allow the chicken to simmer for another 2-3 minutes in the glaze.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, allowing it to melt into the glaze for extra richness.

2. Sprinkle the crispy bacon over the chicken and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Step 7: Serve

1. Serve the maple glazed chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Tips for the Best Maple Glazed Chicken:

• Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. Avoid pancake syrup, as it doesn’t have the same depth of taste.

• Bacon: Make sure to cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy for that satisfying crunch. If you prefer, you can also use turkey bacon for a leaner option.

• Chicken: If you prefer dark meat, you can substitute chicken thighs for the breast fillets. They’re more flavorful and juicy.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

The Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon is the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The maple syrup creates a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken, while the crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch. It’s an easy-to-make dish that feels indulgent but is quick enough for a weeknight dinner.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this dish with roasted vegetables or a simple rice pilaf to round out the meal. A light white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, will complement the sweetness of the maple glaze.

Enjoy this Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon, a dish that combines the best of savory and sweet flavors in every bite!