Maple Glazed Bacon Chicken Bites Recipe You’ll Love

If you love the irresistible combo of sweet and savory, then maple glazed bacon chicken bites are a must-try dish that will quickly become a favorite. These bite-sized morsels are wrapped in crispy bacon and brushed with a sticky maple glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

this Recipe

Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer for your next gathering or a flavorful main dish that’s easy to prepare, this recipe is sure to impress. You’ll find the perfect balance of smoky bacon, tender chicken, and sweet maple all in one bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.
• The maple glaze adds a deliciously sweet contrast to smoky bacon and savory chicken.
• Bite-sized pieces make it great for parties, snacks, or casual dinners.
• Oven-baked for less mess and hands-off cooking.
• Customizable with your favorite spices and dipping sauces.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your maple glazed bacon chicken bites:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 12 slices thin-cut bacon
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for mild heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

How to Make Maple Glazed Bacon Chicken Bites are a must-try dish!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch each, ensuring even cooking.
3. Wrap each chicken piece with half a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
6. Brush half of the maple glaze generously over each bacon-wrapped chicken bite before baking.
7. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and brush the remaining glaze over the bites. Return to the oven and bake an additional 10 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
8. Let the bites rest for 3-5 minutes after baking to let the glaze set slightly.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm, optionally with extra maple glaze or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use thin-cut bacon for easier wrapping and quicker crisping.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• If toothpicks are used, soak them in water for 10 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
• Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked chicken.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes or swap smoked paprika for chipotle powder.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover maple glazed bacon chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, reheat in a preheated 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes rather than the microwave.

For longer storage, freeze the cooked bites in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until hot and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and offer a juicier texture. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and adjust cooking time if needed, ensuring they reach 165°F internally.

Is there an alternative to bacon for this recipe?

If you prefer not to use bacon, thin slices of turkey bacon or prosciutto can be good substitutes. Keep in mind turkey bacon may be less crispy and prosciutto cooks faster, so watch carefully.

How sweet is the maple glaze?

The glaze adds a pleasant, balanced sweetness that complements the smoky bacon and savory chicken. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the maple syrup slightly or add more mustard and vinegar for tang.

Can I make these bites ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble and wrap the chicken bites a few hours before baking. Store them uncovered in the fridge and bake when ready, adding the glaze just before cooking for best results.