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๐Ÿ Home ยป Recipes ยป Appetizer and Party Recipes

Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

Published: Jan 20, 2025 by Dan Mikesell AKA DrDan ยท 80 Comments

Jump to Recipe
Time: 1 hour hr

These bacon-wrapped chicken bites are a perfect appetizer. The juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a spicy brown sugar coating will make them the first finger food to disappear at any party. Assemble them with toothpicks ahead of time, then coat and bake them for the partyโ€”so easy, so good.

๐Ÿ“Ingredients

Chickenโ€”skinless boneless chicken breasts
Bacon
Pantry ingredientsโ€”Brown sugar, chili powder, and cumin
Optional cayenne pepper

Bacon-wrapped chicken bite on a toothpick,
Jump To (scroll for more)
  • ๐Ÿ“Ingredients
  • ๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐ŸณHow to Make Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bitesโ€”Step-by-Step Photo Instructions
  • ๐Ÿค”Options and variations
  • ๐Ÿ“…Making them ahead of time
  • โ™จ๏ธHow to keep chicken bites warm for serving
  • ๐Ÿ“‹Appetizer and Party Recipes
  • โ„๏ธStoring leftovers and reheating
  • โ“FAQs
  • โš•๏ธChicken food safety tips
  • ๐Ÿ“–The Recipe Card with Step-by-Step Instructions
Blue ribbon divider used for visual effect

quote mark
Featured Comment by Jamie:
โญโญโญโญโญ
"These are so yummy and so easy to make!"

These sweet and spicy bacon and chicken wraps require a skill level of 3/10 (easy). The chili powder and cumin add spiciness but not much heat. Add the optional cayenne pepper for more heat. It is easy to double or triple if needed.

Check out these other popular appetizer recipes, such as Crispy Baked Chicken Wings, Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bites, Candied Almonds, and Candied Bacon.

๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐ŸณHow to Make Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bitesโ€”Step-by-Step Photo Instructions

Raw chicken with bacon and spicesโ€”labeled.
Chicken breasts cut into 1 inch cubes.

1. Clean and trim chicken into 1-inch cubes.

Flattening thicker bacon with the back of a knife.

2. Thin and trim the bacon strips with the back edge of a chef's knife to your desired thickness. Then, cut the bacon slices in half.

Pile of bacon and chicken wraps.

3. Roll the bacon around the chicken cubes and secure it with a toothpick.

Mixing the coating of brown sugar and spices.

4. Mix the coating of brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, and optional cayenne pepper.

Preparing a tray with foil and a rack.

5. Prep a sheet pan with aluminum foil and a rackโ€“spray with PAM.

Roll the chicken bites in the coating.

6. Roll the pieces in the brown sugar mixture. Be sure to pack some in the ends. Place on the rack.

cooked bacon wrapped chicken still on baking rack.

7. Bake until golden brown and at a 165ยฐ internal temperature for about 35 minutes.

pile of cooked bacon wrapped chicken on a platter.

8. Cover with foil on a heavy dish to keep warm until served. See the above discussion about options to stay warm safely.

For more details, keep reading. See the Recipe Card below for complete instructions and to print.

๐Ÿค”Options and variations

The chicken does need to be raw chicken breast or thighs. If you use thighs, they are safe cooked to 165ยฐ like all other chicken but are more tender if cooked to 180ยฐ

The cumin is optional but it adds a warm spiciness but no significant heat.

I like to add a touch cayenne pepper, ยผ teaspoon, for some heat.

I like to start with thicker bacon so I can trim some fat and still have enough bacon width to cover the chicken when I thin it.

Use either light or dark brown sugar.

A rack is highly recommended but not required. It will keep the chicken warps out of the draining bacon fat.

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๐Ÿ“…Making them ahead of time

Assemble them, but do not coat them with spices or bake. Cover airtight and refrigerate for a day.

โ™จ๏ธHow to keep chicken bites warm for serving

Keeping them warm for serving could be a challenge. Electric griddles usually have a warm setting and will work well.

A large crock pot will work with crumpled-up aluminum foil in the bottom so the bottom layer does not set in drained liquid. Use a low setting.

For food safety, keep the temperature above 140ยฐ if they are out for more than 2 hours (they will not last that long at most parties).

๐Ÿ“‹Appetizer and Party Recipes

Don't forget to check out other party recipes, like Crispy Baked Chicken Wings, Lemon Squares, and Cheesecake Bars.

Check out these other recipes for BBQ picnics and parties, like oven baked chicken legs, grilled chicken drumsticks, grilled bone-in or boneless chicken thighs, or burgers on the grill.

โ„๏ธStoring leftovers and reheating

Store airtight in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Freeze for 2 months. Freeze on a tray to freeze individually for several hours, then transfer to an airtight container.

To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then in a 350ยฐ oven for about 15 minutes.

โ“FAQs

Can I skip thinning the bacon?

If you use thinner bacon, it is not needed. Very thick bacon may take enough extra cooking time to overcook the chicken.

I like to use standard "thick-cut" bacon, which can then be thinned to widen it. This allows me to better cover the chicken and trim some fat.

โš•๏ธChicken food safety tips

Raw chicken and other poultry should be considered contaminated and handled with care. Wash your hands carefully before and after touching raw chicken.

We do not wash raw chicken routinely due to water splatter. For more information, see Chicken: To Rinse or Not to Rinse?

You must cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165ยฐ for safetyโ€”see the USDA recommendations for more information. You need to check this with an instant-read thermometer.

These chicken wraps are frequently used for parties. Be sure they stay above 140ยฐ. If they falls below 140ยฐ for more than 2 hours, they should be discarded.

Most recipes (including this one) include estimated cooking times. These are provided for planning purposes. However, you can not cook safely using timeโ€”you must use a thermometer.

Blue ribbon divider used for visual effect

๐Ÿ“–The Recipe Card with Step-by-Step Instructions

Bacon-wrapped chicken bite on a toothpick,

Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

4.43 from 7 votes
From Dan Mikesell AKA DrDan
These bacon-wrapped chicken bites are a perfect appetizer. The juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a spicy brown sugar coating will make them the first finger food to disappear at any party. You can assemble them with toothpicks beforehand, then coat and bake them for the partyโ€”so easy, so good.
Prep Time: 25 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes minutes
Total Time: 1 hour hour
Servings #/Adjustable :15 servings
Print | Pin | Email share | Like and save for later Saved!

Video Slideshow

Ingredients

US Customary - Convert to Metric
  • 1 ยผ pounds skinless boneless chicken breasts - cut into 1 inch cubes
  • 1 pound bacon - buy good quality
  • โ…– cup dark brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • ยฝ teaspoon cumin
  • ยผ teaspoon cayenne pepper - optional

Step-by-Step Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350ยฐ convection or 375ยฐ conventional.
    Raw chicken with bacon and spicesโ€”labeled.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine โ…” cup dark brown sugar, 2 tablespoons chili powder, ยฝ teaspoon cumin, and ยผ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional).
    mixing brown sugar with spices in bowl
  • Clean and trim about 1 ยผ pounds of skinless boneless chicken breast. Cut into approx 1-inch cubes.
    Cubes of trimmed chicken breast.
  • If using thick-cut bacon, you may thin the strips of bacon with the back edge of a chef's knife and trim some fat. Cut the strips in half.
    Flattening thicker bacon with the back of a knife.
  • Roll the bacon around the chicken cubes and secure it with a toothpick. At this point, cover and refrigerate for better timing. You can keep it tightly covered and refrigerated for up to a day.
    Pile of bacon and chicken wraps.
  • Prep a sheet pan with aluminum foil and a rackโ€“spray with PAM.
    Preparing a tray with foil and a rack.
  • Roll the pieces in the brown sugar mixture. Be sure to pack some in the ends. Place on the rack.
    Roll the chicken bites in the coating.
  • Bake until golden brown and at a 165ยฐ internal temperature for about 35 minutes.
    cooked bacon wrapped chicken still on baking rack
  • Cover with foil on a heavy dish to keep warm until served.
    pile of cooked bacon wrapped chicken on a platter

Recipe Notes

Pro Tips:

  1. If you are using thicker bacon, you may want to flatten it a bit with the flat edge of a knife. This will widen it, allowing you to wrap the chicken better and trim some fat. Alternatively, you can use thinner bacon.
  2. Chicken thighs work fine or can be substituted for small sausages or other things.
  3. The cayenne pepper is optional. It adds some heat.
  4. It can be made up a day ahead after covering the chicken in bacon and securing it with a toothpick before coating it with sugar and spice mix.
  5. Serve warm. A griddle or crock pot will work nicely. See the post for a discussion about food safety and keeping them warm.

Your Own Private Notes

Click here to save your own private notes only you will see. These will print and be saved for your next visit.

To adjust the recipe size:

You can adjust the number of servings above; however, only the amount in the ingredient list is adjusted, not the instructions.

Nutrition Estimate (may vary)

Calories : 226 kcal (11%)Carbohydrates : 11 g (4%)Protein : 19 g (38%)Fat : 12 g (18%)Saturated Fat : 4 g (20%)Trans Fat : 1 gCholesterol : 54 mg (18%)Sodium : 583 mg (24%)Potassium : 327 mg (9%)Fiber : 1 g (4%)Sugar : 10 g (11%)Vitamin A : 340 IU (7%)Vitamin C : 1 mg (1%)Calcium : 18 mg (2%)Iron : 1 mg (6%)

Adapted from Food Network Paula Deen recipe.

Editor note: Originally published June 15, 2012. This recipe has been one of my most pinned recipes on Pinterest and is one of our go-to recipes for gatherings. Updated with expanded options, refreshed photos, and a table of contents to help navigation.

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  1. Mary smith says

    November 09, 2014 at 8:59 pm

    I made these at a party they were wonderful!! Now I tried a version that is for a main course I spread cream cheese ( spreadable) on a chicken fillet and rolled it and wrapped it in bacon then the brown sugar mixture....wow!!!

    Reply
  2. Diane Roark says

    September 17, 2014 at 5:49 pm

    Please let me know if it is not o.k. to use your delicious looking bacon appetizer in my bacon roundup posts.

    Blessings,
    Diane Roark

    Reply
  3. Timotayo says

    July 14, 2014 at 9:20 pm

    This is like food porn. I am feeling diet-guilt for wanting this badly!

    How do you reckon it'd do on a BBQ??? This would be a great camping food to make! Maybe skewer these bad boys on sticks over a fire?? Holy moley....

    Reply
  4. Hutch says

    May 17, 2014 at 7:57 pm

    I smoked these using apple wood. 1 1/2 hours @ 220, they were great! We had a lot of dipping sauces available when we served them...we liked ranch dressing and BW3 spicy garlic sauce the best.

    Reply
    • DrDan says

      May 17, 2014 at 8:59 pm

      That is really stepping it up a notch.... Sounds wonderful
      Thanks for the ideas
      DrDan

  5. Karen Yoder says

    April 03, 2014 at 5:31 pm

    I am doing a wedding reception appetitzers. Is there any way to make them in bulk and keep warm after baking until serving?
    would an electric roaster work?

    Reply
    • DrDan says

      April 03, 2014 at 8:46 pm

      Hummm no idea really. That is more of a catering question. I guess I would try some sort of warming oven but you might dry them...
      I know you can assemble them ahead and even do the coating a few hours ahead but I have always served them shortly after cooking. We did take a large tray about 20 minutes away and used an electric serving tray for the 60's to keep them hot there.

      Anybody out there with a suggestion.
      DrDan

    • garden girl says

      April 04, 2014 at 7:52 am

      hi karen, what about a warming tray versus a electric roaster?? or electric serving tray...do you have time to experiment ?? i am not an expert by any means .....my thoughts are you dont want to continue to cook them just keep them warm....

  6. Michele says

    March 30, 2014 at 5:56 pm

    Made these yesterday for my husband's b-day party. They were amazing and a huge hit. Everyone loved them, even my picky step-son. I wrapped and coated them in them morning and popped them in the fridge until ready to bake. Thanks for the great recipe!

    Reply
    • DrDan says

      March 31, 2014 at 6:56 am

      They have somewhat become our "take to the party" dish.
      Thanks for the comment
      DrDan

  7. Joyce says

    February 18, 2014 at 5:10 pm

    May I recommend using a mixture of honey mustard, & BQ sauce for dipping ? Makes a excellent sauce on everything!!

    Reply
    • DrDan says

      February 18, 2014 at 11:11 pm

      Thanks for the recommendations. I'm not a dipper usually but it sounds great.
      Thanks for the note
      DrDan

  8. laura says

    February 12, 2014 at 12:02 am

    Do you think you could do these in a crockpot?

    Reply
    • DrDan says

      February 12, 2014 at 12:49 pm

      No. No chance. The bacon would not cook.
      DrDan

    • Carrie says

      August 29, 2018 at 2:18 pm

      There's actually a recipie for these in the crockpot on Pinterest as well.

  9. CiciG says

    February 06, 2014 at 12:54 pm

    This was a HUGE hit at our Superbowl Party! It was a little time consuming, but looked impressive. If you have the time, it's worth it!

    Reply
    • DrDan says

      February 06, 2014 at 9:45 pm

      Thanks for the note. I generally do everything but the coating ahead and let them set in the refrigerator covered so my time during a party is not much.

      DrDan

  10. Joan says

    February 03, 2014 at 11:38 am

    Made these yesterday for the superbowl and they were pretty good but most the brown sugar mixture seemed to drip off while cooking so they didn't have much of the sweet and spicy flavor. We ended up dipping them in BBQ sauce. Any suggestions on how to keep the mixture from dripping off while cooking?

    Reply
    • DrDan says

      February 03, 2014 at 10:40 pm

      Hi Joan
      I haven't had that problem. I would suspect it has to do with the bacon. I use a very lean bacon so it may stick better. I use Hormel Black Label.

      DrDan

    • OrganicOso says

      December 05, 2015 at 6:44 pm

      Try putting the spice and brown suger in a plastic bag and tossing the cubed chicken in it before wrapping with bacon. The fat from the bacon will coat and help marinate the rub into the chicken while it bakes.

    • Julie says

      December 22, 2017 at 12:54 am

      I cook mine directly on sheet pan, no rack. Let's the bacon & ckn/weinies soak up all the sugar & spice

  11. Joy says

    December 19, 2013 at 12:15 am

    Very easy to make. Tasty little treats.

    Reply
  12. Teri says

    December 08, 2013 at 5:26 pm

    Totally making these next weekend!

    Reply
  13. Beedermpath says

    September 10, 2012 at 3:29 pm

    Made these for a party! Awesome!

    Reply
  14. Beedermpath says

    September 10, 2012 at 3:28 pm

    Made these for a party! I tripled the recipe, they were a big hit. Thanks!

    Reply
  15. Chris says

    June 22, 2012 at 7:21 pm

    Hard to beat that for party food! I did a savory version of this years ago and it was not as good, it needs the sweet.

    Reply
  16. Greg says

    June 18, 2012 at 11:34 am

    some friends of mine do almost the exact same recipe with the little cocktail hotdogs instead of the chicken. they go fast at parties. I think I like the idea of the chicken myself.

    Reply
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