Maple Bacon Glazed Chicken Bites

It’s perfect for beginner cooks because it requires simple ingredients, minimal prep, and only one pan. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a protein-packed snack, this dish checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it over rice, in wraps, or alongside roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal.

 

Ingredients and Why They Matter

• Chicken breast – Tender and lean, it absorbs the sweet-savory glaze beautifully. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
• Bacon – Adds a crispy, smoky contrast to the sweet glaze. Turkey bacon works as a leaner alternative.
• Maple syrup – Naturally sweet with a deep, caramelized flavor. Honey or agave syrup can be used if maple syrup isn’t available.
• Brown sugar – Enhances the glaze’s richness and helps with caramelization. Swap it with coconut sugar for a slightly healthier alternative.
• Dijon mustard – Adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness. Yellow mustard works in a pinch, but Dijon offers a smoother, more refined taste.
• Soy sauce – Brings umami depth, making the glaze richer. Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
• Garlic powder & onion powder – Essential seasonings that boost flavor effortlessly.
• Salt & black pepper – Simple yet crucial for bringing out all the flavors.
• Cooking spray or oil – Prevents sticking and helps the chicken brown evenly.

 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

In a bowl, season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. This simple step enhances flavor from the start. Set the chicken aside while you prepare the bacon.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess grease. Crumble into small pieces and set aside. Keep a little of the bacon fat in the skillet for extra flavor when cooking the chicken.

Step 3: Make the Maple Glaze

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth. This glaze will coat the chicken beautifully, creating a sticky, flavorful sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Using the same skillet with a light grease of cooking spray or oil, heat over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should be firm to the touch and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Add the Glaze

Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the maple glaze over the cooked chicken. Toss to coat the pieces evenly and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and clings to the chicken.

Step 6: Add the Bacon

Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the glazed chicken and stir everything together. The bacon’s crispy texture will contrast perfectly with the sticky, caramelized glaze.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Your Maple Bacon Glazed Chicken Bites are ready to be devoured! Serve them hot and fresh, garnished with extra black pepper or fresh parsley if desired.

 

Beginner Tips and Notes

• How to Tell If the Chicken Is Done: The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut a piece open—there should be no pink inside.
• Preventing Overcooking: If your chicken starts browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly and add a splash of water to slow the cooking process.
• Efficient Prep: Cut and season the chicken first, then cook the bacon while preparing the glaze to save time.
• Sticky Glaze Tip: If the sauce gets too thick, add a teaspoon of water to loosen it while stirring.

 

Serving Suggestions

• As an Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks for an easy finger food option.
• With Rice or Quinoa: The glaze pairs wonderfully with a neutral base like rice or quinoa to absorb all the flavors.
• Over a Salad: Toss the glazed chicken over fresh greens for a warm, flavorful salad.
• Side Pairings: Roasted sweet potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a simple coleslaw complement the dish well.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.

 

Try It and Share Your Experience

This easy maple bacon glazed chicken recipe is a foolproof way to create a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re new to cooking or just looking for a quick and healthy sheet pan meal, this dish will become a go-to favorite. Give it a try and let us know in the comments how it turned out. Did you add a twist? We’d love to hear your variations!

 

FAQ About Maple Bacon Glazed Chicken Bites