Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is the best chicken you’ll ever eat with only 4 ingredients. Sticky, crispy, sweet, and garlicky!
If you’re a fan of the wonderful pairing of sweet and savory, then you’ll also love the other amazing Chicken Recipes, like the Memphis Barbecue Chicken Wings, the delicious Oven Baked Chicken Breasts, and the classic Chinese Honey Chicken.
Chicken with bacon is a key element in the culinary universe, beloved by foodies all over the globe. And when you bring brown sugar and garlic into the mix, you’re onto a real winner. What makes this Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken one of our favorite recipes is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. The star of the show is, without a doubt, the brown sugar and garlic glaze. The sugar caramelizes beautifully in the oven making the chicken golden brown, while the garlic gives a subtle kick that complements the sweetness. As for the bacon, it infuses the chicken with its rich, smoky essence, making every bite an absolute delight.
Chicken is a versatile meat, tender and mild in flavor, which makes it an excellent canvas for the strong, bold flavors of bacon, brown sugar, and garlic. As for the bacon, its natural fattiness helps keep the chicken moist during baking, ensuring a succulent result and turns into crispy bacon on top!
Making this dish is relatively straightforward, with the procedure involving a simple marination process followed by wrapping the chicken in bacon and baking. This is an ideal recipe to whip up for a weeknight meal when you’re craving something out of the ordinary yet uncomplicated. The ingredients are readily available, making it a stress-free culinary endeavor that results in a restaurant-quality dish.
What’s fascinating about this recipe is that it could very well be a gourmet dish at a high-end restaurant, yet it’s remarkably easy to make at home. For anyone who loves the combination of chicken and bacon, this is a recipe that you should not miss. Serve with yellow Persian Rice for a fun, flavorful, and delicious meal.
How to Make Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
You don’t need to be a culinary expert to create this delicious dish at home. It’s simple, straightforward, and yet delivers outstanding results that will impress your friends and family. Check it out!
- Step One: The first step is to gather your ingredients. Begin by combining the brown sugar, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
- Step Two: Next, coat the chicken breasts in the brown sugar mixture, ensuring they’re thoroughly covered.
- Step Three: Once coated, wrap each chicken breast with two slices of bacon. Try to ensure the ends of the bacon slices are tucked underneath the chicken to prevent them from unraveling during cooking.
- Step Four: Place the bacon-wrapped chicken into a baking sheet with sides that are at least 2 inches high.
- Step Five: Sprinkle the remaining brown sugar mixture over the bacon-wrapped chicken in the baking pan.
- Step Six: Bake the chicken at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s thoroughly cooked and the bacon is browned. Be mindful to avoid burning the brown sugar.
More Bacon u0026 Brown Sugar Favorites
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, for this recipe, boneless and skinless chicken breasts are recommended. They cook evenly and are easy to eat once wrapped in bacon.
Brown sugar is recommended because it caramelizes and coats the chicken better, adding to the overall flavor. However, in a pinch, you could substitute with granulated white sugar.
If the bacon isn’t crispy after 30 minutes, you can put the dish under the broiler for a couple of minutes. Watch closely to ensure it doesn’t burn.
The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit on a meat thermometer.
Create a free account to Save Recipes
Key Ingredients in Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
This recipe is a wonderful combination of a few impactful ingredients. Each one brings something unique to the table, culminating in a dish that is truly greater than the sum of its parts.
- Brown Sugar: The brown sugar provides a wonderful sweetness to the dish, which contrasts beautifully with the savory elements. Its molasses content gives it a rich, deep flavor that white sugar cannot replicate.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds a potent and aromatic punch to the dish, balancing out the sweetness of the brown sugar. Its unique, pungent flavor permeates the chicken during cooking, making it a vital ingredient in this recipe.
- Bacon: The bacon provides a deliciously smoky and savory element to the dish. It also keeps the chicken moist and tender while it cooks. Opt for thick-cut bacon if possible, as it will hold up better during cooking.
- Chicken Breasts: Chicken breasts are used for their mild flavor and tenderness. They absorb the flavors of the bacon, brown sugar, and garlic beautifully, resulting in a savory, sweet, and utterly delicious dish.
Air Fryer Method for Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
While this recipe calls for baking, you can also cook this dish using an air fryer for a potentially crispier result. We don’t use a Dutch oven with a lid because it will steam the bacon which then won’t get crispy.
- Follow the recipe steps up to placing the bacon-wrapped chicken in the baking pan.
- Instead of placing them in a baking pan, arrange the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Cook at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. Remember, air fryers can vary, so monitor them closely.
Can Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Be Made Ahead of Time?
This recipe is fantastic for preparation ahead of time. You can wrap the chicken in the bacon and marinate it in the brown sugar mixture, then store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to cook, simply preheat the oven and follow the recipe’s baking instructions.
It’s worth noting, however, that once cooked, this dish is best served immediately. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave until heated through. Add a little water to the dish when reheating to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Substitutions in Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
- Brown Sugar: If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can use white sugar with a little bit of molasses added. Alternatively, coconut sugar could work as a healthier option.
- Garlic: If fresh garlic isn’t available, garlic powder can be used. Just remember, the flavor won’t be as strong as fresh garlic.
- Bacon: Turkey bacon can be used as a leaner option compared to regular pork bacon, but it might not provide the same level of richness.
- Chicken Breasts: While chicken breasts are ideal, you could also use chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time as they may require a bit longer to cook thoroughly.
Variations on Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
While the original recipe is delicious as it is, there are plenty of ways to add your own personal touch for a delicious chicken dinner.
- Spicy Version: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mix.
- Herby Version: Try adding some dried or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the mix. Italian seasoning is also a good option for extra flavor.
- Cheesy Version: After the chicken is cooked, sprinkle some grated cheese on top, then return to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
How to Serve Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
This chicken dish is quite versatile when it comes to serving options. It pairs well with a variety of sides and complements several different cuisines. Top with chopped green onions as a colorful garnish. Here are a few ideas:
- Serve with Veggies: A simple side of Roasted Vegetables or a fresh salad would balance the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken. Try the Bacon Parmesan Brussels Sprouts.
- Serve with Rice: The rich flavors of this dish would be beautifully balanced by serving it with plain or Buttery Garlic Quinoa.
- Serve with Potatoes: Mashed potatoes, Potato Wedges, or a fancy Potatoes Au Gratin would all work well for a delicious dinner.
More Easy Weeknight Meals
How to Store Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
- Serve: After cooking, the chicken shouldn’t be left at room temperature for more than two hours.
- Store: Leftovers should be refrigerated in an airtight container and are best consumed within 3-4 days.
- Freeze: While you can freeze the cooked chicken, the texture of the bacon may change upon thawing and reheating. It’s best to freeze the marinated, bacon-wrapped chicken before cooking, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on medium heat in the oven, air fryer, or toaster oven for 7-10 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup brown sugar , packed
- 3 tablespoons garlic , minced
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon course ground black pepper
- 6 chicken breasts , boneless, skinless (4-5 ounces each)
- 12 slices bacon
Instructions
- In a large bowl add the brown sugar, garlic, salt and pepper and mix until combined.
- Coat the chicken in the brown sugar mixture.
- Wrap each piece of chicken with two slices of bacon (aim for the end of the bacon pieces to stay under the chicken to prevent unwrapping while cooking).
- Place into your baking pan (with at least 2 inch high sides).
- Top with the remaining brown sugar mixture.
- Cook at 375 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and browned.
- Careful to not let the brown sugar burn and blacken.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Want to save this recipe? Create a free account to easily save your favorite recipes
Photos used in a previous version of this post.
Everyone loved this. Easy to make. Sorry I don’t have a pic but its all gone. I was told I have to make this again and I will. Thanks for the recipe!
Very good recipe. I used 4 much larger chick breasts (1 pound each). Increased the cook time to 50 mins. Touch of broiler to finish color. Plenty of liquid in the pan kept the chicken super moist AND flavorful. Served with rice and green beans in butter/vinaigrette. Cheers
I used this recipe on 20 wings (flats & drums) with just half a pcs of bacon per wing. Amazing. the flavors work great on the wing. Just had to change up the cooking time a Little. Great recipe we will be making this again.
Made this last night and thr family love it was delicious
Delicious! I couldn’t get the bacon to crisp though? Had it on a rack, up’d the temp to 400, and kept it in almost 15 min longer… should I try to cook it in the pan first next time?
Made this before Christmas – I loved it the taste was great and the chicken was not dry like others recipes. I did spice it up and it was great. Making this tonight for the second time.
Just made this for dinner and it was a huge hit. Flavor was really good. Bacon never got done but next time will follow suggestions in comments and broil to crisp bacon. Definitely a keeper.
Not sure where I webt wrong but the bacon did not cook all the way at 375 for 35 minutes. Chicken is fine but bacon did not cook. Probably better to brown bacon wrapped chicken in skillet for 2 min on medium high on each side before putting in oven. I’ve made many recipes this way and it works better for the bacon
Great flavors! Used slightly larger breasts and bumped it up to 400 and 45 minutes. Worked out great too!! Thank you!!
So made this for dinner 2 yr old loved it 7 yr old loved it and my hubby who rarely goes back for seconds went back for seconds I was shocked.
I’d call that a winner!! Thanks for taking the time to come back and let me know, Alexis!
I was looking for new ways to dress up chicken and I found this. Instant hit with my family and kids! Also made the house smell delicious ?
What kind of sides would go with this
You can add any vegetable or even mashed potatoes as a side. If you click on the “recipes by category” link at the top left of the site, you’ll find a sides option and there are so many to choose from. This is such a versatile dish that almost any one of them would be a fantastic option. Enjoy!
I marinade in Worcester and garlic powder and onion powder over night and then made it the next night awesome!
Made this recipe for dinner last night. Substituted chickens wings for chicken breasts. Cooking time was longer because of the bones, but the dish was a success. My husband stated not to serve him any chicken that was not seasoned with the brown sugar coating and wrapped in bacon. That is a high complement from him, because he does not like meats that taste sweet. The meat was tender and juicy. I did add a 1/2 teaspoon of Mrs. Dash Southwestern Seasoning for a little heat. Think next time, will use 1/4 teaspoon of the crushed red pepper flakes. Thank you for this awesome recipe.
I’m so glad you both enjoyed it! You’re husband sounds like a smart man and I love his request!
IF i dont have kosher salt will that play a difference ???
You can use table salt if that’s what you have on hand. 🙂
Tasty but the chicken was dry dry.Might have cooked it too long…they were big pieces of chicken.
I tried this. Modified it a bit. We like our food a bit spicy and it became an instant family favorite
This is my families new favorite dish. This is super easy and DELICIOUS!! Thnak you for the recipe!!
I made this last night and it was a huge hit!!! Thanks for this simple and delicious recipe!
All I can say is…WOW! My family is in a place where I need to do more cooking… and my wife has been the one that “has the gift”.
BUT! When I made this recipe, I basically got a “standing O”! It is incredible!!!
Love it!! Thanks for taking the time to come back and let me know, Paul!
Can’t wait to make it
This chicken was delicious. Not too sweet, moist, great taste. My whole family loved it. This will become a regular for us.
Looks so good!!! Is it possible to use turkey bacon?
Unfortunately it won’t work. You really need the fat content of real bacon for this recipe to work.
It tasted really good I just wish the bacon could’ve been crisper. I guess I would have to cook it a little bit before wrapping it around the chicken. But it was still super good!
Did you use fresh garlic and mince it? Seems like the wet garlic will make the brown sugar wet and unable to stick to the chicken. Should I use fresh or garlic powder? Looks so amazing. I want to get it right
I used fresh garlic for this recipe. Make sure to pat down your chicken before putting anything on it to ensure there’s no extra liquid and you’ll be fine with it sticking. Plus, you’re wrapping the bacon around it after so it helps to keep it all on. I hope you enjoy it!
Making this tonight for dinner! Any recommendations for reheating?
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes.
I used bacon already cooked! It goes fast and tastes great. I put my chicken into egg mixture! Great recipe. Thank you!
I made this receipt last night for the 1st time and it is FABULOUS!!!!! Love the sweet tangy taste and of course, what’s not to love about Bacon!!!! Thank you for sharing with us 🙂
It is so simple and so juicy . . I used large thighs with skin/bone and cooked for one hour.
Bacon just makes everything better!!
I was a little disappointed that the sugar mixture didn’t adhere to the breasts that well. It was more garlicky than I like.
This was amazing. Both my husband and I loved it. I only made half the recipe since it is just the two of us. I wish I had made the whole recipe. The flavor was fantastic, not too garlicky, not too sweet. My husband told me this recipe is a definate keeper!
Thanks for the 5 stars Kathleen!
My Husband and Daughter are soooooo happy with your presence in my life!!!! I have made SEVERAL of these recipes on Dinner then Dessert. From the corn casserole to this chicken recipe!! Everything so far has been phenomenal!!! Thank you sooooo much
How awesome! Thanks for coming back to let me know!
I made it for dinner tonight. First, it took an hour to cook. When I checked after 30 minutes, the bacon was not cooked. I don’t understand the directions requiring a pan with one inch sides. There isn’t any sauce. The flavors of the garlic and bacon are good, but nothing spectacular. If I made it again, I would add white wine and some fresh herbs. It needs more flavor.
I made this tonight because I wanted to try something different. My son said “Mom! This chicken is on fire! I mean, it’s on point!” It was a little too sweet for me, but I know next time to cut the sugar a little bit and add a little more sea salt. The chicken was tender and it was a beautiful presentation. Thank you for your recipe!
I made this once as a test daub and the very next day my husband and mother-in-law were begging me to make it again.
I’d call that a success!! So glad everyone enjoyed it!
Loved it. Easy to make and tastes great. Always looking for a different way to cook chicken. Next time I will try it with maple bacon.
The best chicken ever!! I add chill I powder with the dry ingredients placed in a Ziploc bag… I also used boneless, skinless chicken thighs … Yummy!!
This chicken is magical, everyone just loved it. The recipe was super easy to make and took very little time prepping and preparing. I will be keeping this recipe in my meal rotation from now on. Thank you, Sabrina!
This was good! I used chicken thighs and broiled the chicken for 1 minute to crisp up the bottom bacon. I definitely added ground red pepper to add some heat. The contrast was delicious, not to sweet.
So easy to make and absolutely delicious!! This recipe is a keeper!!
We loved this dish and had leftovers. The next night we reheated the leftovers and they were even better.
Seriously the best chicken I’ve had. It reheats well, too!
Hi Sabrina!
I just made this for dinner tonight for my husband and I and I have to say, this was absolutely one of the best chicken recipes EVER! I wanted to make it before making it again for guests in a couple of weeks. I adjusted the ingredients for 2 pieces of chicken.
I have a question for you about the note at the end of the recipe. You only made 3 but recipe is for 6. Would you then double the ingredients for 6?
This
I’m so glad you guys loved it!! If you want this for 6, just follow the recipe as it’s written. I just wanted to explain why my pan only had 3 in it. Sorry for the confusion!
Omg i made this and YUMMMM! Seeing my boneless chicken was quite thick I baked two breasts for about an hour and a half on 375° I put slits into my chicken so the juices circulate and the flavoring seeps into the chicken. Just like everyone else the top of the bacon was crisp as the bottom was soggy but no biggy. I also made one breast with Turkey bacon and my fiance fell in love. It was a hit. Thank you!
One of our new favorite chicken dishes.
Best chicken I’ve had in a while! I had to use a few substitutions but it was still amazing!
So glad you loved it, Margaret!
I want to make this now, and unable to leave the house. I have everything but minced garlic?? Any suggestions
In a pinch, you could always sprinkle in a bit of garlic powder or just leave it out completely knowing that it’ll change the flavor.
1st Day Back To School, and I want to try something new for dinner.. Looks amazing.. Can’t wait for dinner!!
Super easy and delicious!
We loved it. I added a little cayenne pepper for heat and about 1T bourbon for flavor. Served with steamed carrots and roasted potatos. Delicious!
Thanks for the 5 star rating Carly! Glad you all loved it!
O.k., made this last night for my sweetie. He was going to be an hour and 1/2 late for dinner so I let it marinade. I put it in a pan with 2″ edges and lined with foil. It was so easy to clean up! I put way more garlic than called for, used the roasted garlic from a jar. Bottom line? He loved it! Definitely going to do this again. Thanks for the recipe!
O.k., this just looked too good! I went to the store, got the ingredients and am making this tonight for my sweetie. I’m vegetarian, so I won’t get to taste it, but he will let me know if he likes it. It has his favourite things, chicken, garlic, bacon and brown sugar. I’ll let you know how it goes! 🙂 Thanks for the recipe.