These Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites, affectionately known as “Chicken Candy,” are savory, sweet, and slightly spicy bite-sized treats. Perfect as an appetizer for any occasion, they combine tender chicken pieces wrapped in crispy bacon, coated with a brown sugar and spice mixture.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

2¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 pound bacon strips, sliced into thirds
⅔ cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon chili powder
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt, to taste

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Generously coat the rack with nonstick cooking spray.
Mix Coating: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.
Season Chicken: Lightly sprinkle the chicken pieces with salt to taste.
Wrap Chicken: Wrap a slice of bacon around each chicken cube and secure with a toothpick.
Coat with Sugar Mixture: Dredge the bacon-wrapped chicken pieces in the brown sugar mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
Arrange on Rack: Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared wire rack.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the bacon is crisp.
Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrients Per serving (1 piece):

Calories: 66
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 17mg
Sodium: 79mg
Potassium: 91mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Vitamin A: 54 IU
Vitamin C: 1mg
Calcium: 4mg
Iron: 1mg

What Makes Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps So Special?

Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps are an irresistible combination of sweet, salty, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors that come together in a perfect bite-sized appetizer. The contrast of crispy bacon with tender chicken, caramelized brown sugar, and a hint of spice makes these wraps a popular party food. This dish is ideal for game nights, holiday gatherings, or casual family meals where you want something easy yet incredibly satisfying. The versatility of the ingredients means you can modify it to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Some people prefer to add a glaze for extra flavor, while others like to experiment with different seasonings to create a unique twist.

The Flavor Combination That Works Every Time

The key to the success of this dish is its combination of flavors and textures. The saltiness of the bacon enhances the natural mild taste of chicken, while the brown sugar creates a rich caramelization on the outside. Adding a bit of spice from chili powder and cayenne pepper gives the dish a mild kick that balances out the sweetness. Bacon-wrapped appetizers have been around for a long time, but this particular recipe stands out because of the carefully selected seasoning blend and the ideal balance of ingredients. Each bite delivers a mouthwatering contrast that keeps people coming back for more.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best things about Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps is their versatility. They are ideal for a wide range of events and occasions, such as:

Parties and Gatherings – Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, a birthday celebration, or a family reunion, these chicken bacon wraps will be a hit with guests. They’re easy to grab and eat, making them the perfect finger food.
Holiday Appetizers – If you need an appetizer for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve, this dish is a great option. The caramelized sugar and crispy bacon give them a festive, indulgent feel.
Weeknight Dinners – Although these are commonly served as appetizers, they can also be part of a main meal. Pair them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete dinner.
Potlucks and Picnics – Since these wraps are easy to transport and serve, they make an excellent dish for potlucks or outdoor events.

How to Customize This Recipe

While the classic recipe is already delicious, there are several ways to personalize it based on dietary preferences or flavor preferences.

Different Meat Options – If you want to switch things up, you can use turkey bacon instead of traditional pork bacon. This will slightly alter the taste and texture but can be a healthier alternative.
Alternative Sweeteners – If you prefer a different sweetness level, try using honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar. Each sweetener will create a slightly different caramelization effect.
Additional Seasonings – To enhance the flavor, you can add ingredients like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a splash of soy sauce for an umami kick.
Glaze Variations – Some people like to brush their wraps with barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, or a honey mustard glaze before baking for an extra layer of flavor.

Tips for Making the Best Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps

While this recipe is simple, following a few key tips can make a big difference in the final result:

Use a Wire Rack – Placing the chicken bacon wraps on a wire rack ensures that they cook evenly and allows the fat to drain off, preventing them from becoming soggy.
Secure with Toothpicks – The bacon can shrink while cooking, so securing each wrap with a toothpick helps keep everything in place.
Avoid Overcrowding the Pan – Spacing out the wraps on the baking sheet allows the heat to circulate around them properly, ensuring they cook evenly and the bacon gets crispy.
Watch the Cooking Time – Since ovens vary, keep an eye on the wraps as they cook to prevent burning. The bacon should be crisp and the chicken cooked through, but not dried out.
Let Them Rest Before Serving – Giving the wraps a few minutes to cool after baking helps the flavors settle and makes them easier to handle.

Pairing Suggestions for Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps

Since these wraps have a bold sweet and savory profile, they pair well with a variety of side dishes and dips. Here are some great pairings:

Dips – Serve them with ranch dressing, honey mustard, sriracha mayo, or a homemade garlic aioli for added flavor.
Salads – A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the bacon and sugar glaze.
Vegetables – Roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or green beans are great side dishes that complement the dish.
Carbs – If serving as a main dish, consider pairing with rice, mashed potatoes, or garlic bread for a filling meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers, you can store them properly to enjoy later.

Refrigeration – Store any leftover chicken bacon wraps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing – If you want to make a batch ahead of time, you can freeze the uncooked wraps. When ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking as directed.
Reheating – To maintain crispiness, reheat the wraps in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the bacon chewy instead of crispy.

A Healthier Take on Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps

While this dish is indulgent, there are ways to make it a bit healthier without compromising on taste.

Use Leaner Bacon – Opt for turkey bacon or center-cut pork bacon, which has less fat than traditional bacon.
Reduce Sugar – You can slightly cut back on the brown sugar or use a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener.
Bake Instead of Frying – This recipe is already baked, but making sure to use a wire rack prevents excess grease from soaking into the wraps.
Add a Nutrient Boost – Serve with a side of fresh vegetables or a fruit salad to balance the meal.

Conclusion

Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps are a fantastic appetizer that combines the best elements of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just want a flavorful treat, they’re easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and caramelized brown sugar creates an addictive bite that pairs well with various side dishes and dips.

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