Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with these mouthwatering Bacon and Sage Wrapped Chicken Breasts! Imagine tender, juicy chicken embraced by crispy, smoky bacon and infused with the aromatic essence of fresh sage - a combination that will make your taste buds dance with delight. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a gourmet journey that elevates home cooking to restaurant-quality perfection, guaranteed to impress your family and guests alike.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 8 slices of bacon
- 8 fresh sage leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry using paper towels. This helps the bacon crisp up and adhere better to the chicken.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- Place one fresh sage leaf on top of each chicken breast. The sage will infuse a subtle herbaceous flavor into the meat.
- Carefully wrap each chicken breast with two slices of bacon, overlapping the bacon slightly to completely cover the chicken. The bacon will help keep the chicken moist and add a rich, smoky flavor.
- Brush the wrapped chicken breasts lightly with olive oil. This will help the bacon crisp up and achieve a beautiful golden color.
- Transfer the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet, placing them seam-side down to prevent the bacon from unraveling during cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender chicken.
- Slice and serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh sage leaves if desired. Pairs well with roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Tips
- Always start with completely dry chicken breasts to ensure the bacon crisps perfectly and adheres well.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee your chicken is cooked to the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
- Choose thick-cut bacon for better coverage and a more robust flavor profile.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum moisture and tenderness.
- For extra flavor, try using different herb varieties like rosemary or thyme instead of sage.
- If possible, use room temperature chicken breasts to ensure even cooking.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
