Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken

Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken

Introduction

Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken is a delicious dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. This recipe features juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a sticky honey garlic sauce that brings everything together. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress your family or friends.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, thanks to its mouthwatering taste. The combination of honey and garlic adds a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of bacon and the tender chicken. Plus, it’s simple to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it a great choice for busy cooks.

How to Make Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 4 strips thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 tbsp water + 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Cook Bacon: In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Drain excess grease, leaving about 1 tbsp in the pan.
2. Cook Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear in bacon fat (and olive oil if needed) over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and keep warm.
3. Make Sauce: In the same pan, add garlic and sauté briefly. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and vinegar. Simmer for 2–3 minutes. Optionally, whisk in a cornstarch slurry for a thicker glaze.
4. Combine: Return chicken and bacon to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top and simmer for 1–2 minutes until sticky and well-coated.
5. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley. This dish goes perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken

Serve this dish warm on a platter, drizzled with extra sauce if desired. It’s great alongside fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a variety of roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color!

How to Store Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken

To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Tips to Make Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey garlic sauce for 15-30 minutes before cooking.
• Use chicken thighs for a juicier result.
• If you like more sweetness, adjust the honey to your taste.

Variation

This recipe can easily be adapted by adding vegetables like bell peppers or onions into the skillet while cooking the chicken. You might also swap the honey for maple syrup for a different twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?
   Yes, shrimp can be used! Just cook them until they turn pink and are cooked through. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   You can make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

3. Can I make this dish in the oven?
   Yes, you can bake it! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), combine everything in a baking dish, and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken!