Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Crock Pot Maple Bacon Wrapped Chicken! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts lovingly embraced by crispy bacon and glazed with a sweet and savory maple sauce that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. This foolproof recipe is not just a meal – it's a flavor explosion that combines the irresistible combination of smoky bacon, succulent chicken, and rich maple sweetness in one easy-to-make dish that will become an instant family favorite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 8 slices of bacon, 1/2 cup of maple syrup, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Prepare the chicken breasts by trimming any excess fat and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps the bacon adhere better and ensures even cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. This will be your marinade and glaze for the chicken.
- Take each chicken breast and wrap it with two slices of bacon, ensuring that the bacon covers the entire breast. You can secure the bacon with toothpicks if needed, but it should hold together during cooking.
- Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts in the bottom of your crock pot, making sure they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
- Pour the maple syrup mixture over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Use a spoon to spread the marinade evenly if necessary.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 hours. This slow cooking method will allow the chicken to become tender and the bacon to crisp up slightly.
- After 4 hours, check the chicken for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the crock pot and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- While the chicken is resting, you can optionally turn the crock pot to high and let the remaining sauce cook down for about 10-15 minutes to thicken it up slightly.
- Serve the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts drizzled with the thickened maple sauce, and enjoy your delicious American-style meal!
Tips
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry before wrapping to ensure the bacon crisps up nicely and adheres well.
- Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture and coverage on the chicken breasts.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the maple sauce for a subtle kick.
- If your bacon isn't crisping up enough, you can briefly broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes after slow cooking.
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- For a lower-sodium version, use low-sodium soy sauce and adjust seasonings accordingly.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and are delicious when reheated gently.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 120mg