**Ingredients:**
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 slices of bacon
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then wrap each breast with 2 slices of bacon.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, minced garlic, soy sauce, and thyme.
4. Brush the maple glaze over the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts.
5. Place the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
6. Enjoy your Maple Glazed Chicken with Crispy Bacon!
**Nutrition Information:**
– Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
– Calories: 320
– Total Fat: 14g
– Saturated Fat: 4g
– Cholesterol: 105mg
– Sodium: 420mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 7g
– Dietary Fiber: 0g
– Sugars: 6g
– Protein: 38g
**Popular Questions:**
1. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
– Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
– Substitute tamari for soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
3. Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
– Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, just ensure they are cooked through.
4. Can I marinate the chicken in the maple glaze beforehand?
– Yes, you can marinate the chicken in the maple glaze for additional flavor.
5. Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried thyme?
– Yes, you can use fresh thyme, just double the amount as fresh herbs are less potent than dried.
6. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
7. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
– You can partially prepare this recipe ahead of time, but for best results, bake just before serving.
8. How can I make the bacon crispier?
– Precook the bacon slightly before wrapping it around the chicken breasts for crispier bacon.
9. Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
– Yes, feel free to add vegetables like potatoes or carrots to the baking dish for a complete meal.
10. How can I prevent the bacon from burning?
– Keep an eye on the bacon while baking and cover loosely with foil if it starts to brown too quickly.
**Helpful Tips:**
1. Drizzle extra maple glaze on the chicken before serving for added flavor.
2. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
3. Use thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness.
4. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
5. Try different marinades like barbecue sauce or honey mustard for a flavor twist.
6. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
8. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the maple glaze for depth of flavor.
9. Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for variety.
10. Serve with a side of mashed sweet potatoes for a sweet and savory combination.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Opt for quality bacon for the best flavor and texture.
2. Cook the chicken on a wire rack in the baking dish for even crispiness.
3. Baste the chicken with extra glaze halfway through cooking for added moisture.
4. Use a broiler for the last few minutes of cooking to get a extra crispy bacon.
5. Let the chicken marinate in the glaze for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
6. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the maple glaze for a tangy kick.
7. Use smoked bacon for a smoky flavor profile.
8. Serve with a dollop of whole-grain mustard on the side for a flavor contrast.
9. Try different types of maple syrup for subtle flavor variations.
10. Experiment with different types of bacon like applewood or hickory smoked for unique flavor profiles.