Get ready to transform your appetizer game with these irresistible Chipotle Chicken Bacon Bites that combine smoky, spicy, and crispy elements in one mouthwatering morsel! Imagine tender chicken wrapped in sizzling bacon, kissed with chipotle sauce and smoked paprika - these bite-sized delights are guaranteed to be the star of any gathering, from game day parties to elegant cocktail events. Prepare to become the culinary hero who brings these addictive little treasures to the table!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices bacon, cut in half
- 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks for securing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the chicken by cutting the chicken breast into uniform bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch cubes. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to ensure better seasoning adherence.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chipotle sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in this marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature.
- Cut bacon slices in half crosswise to create shorter strips that will wrap around each chicken bite.
- Wrap each marinated chicken piece with a half slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick to prevent unwrapping during cooking.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking to ensure crispy bacon on all sides.
- Check that chicken is fully cooked by ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Remove toothpicks before serving.
- Serve hot as an appetizer or party snack, optionally garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions.
Tips
- Pat chicken pieces completely dry before marinating to help seasonings stick and promote better browning.
- Use toothpicks strategically to keep bacon securely wrapped around chicken.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - space bites apart for crispy, even cooking.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a light brush of honey or maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Use thick-cut bacon for a more substantial wrap and crispier texture.
- Let bites rest after cooking to redistribute juices and enhance overall flavor.
- Invest in an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure perfect chicken doneness every time.
- For a make-ahead option, you can prepare and wrap chicken bites several hours in advance, refrigerating until ready to bake.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 170kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 65mg
