Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for **Chicken Bites Wrapped in Bacon**:
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### **Ingredients** (Serves 4-6)
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 10-12 slices of bacon, cut in half (to wrap around each chicken piece)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or honey (optional, for a sweet glaze)
- Toothpicks (to secure the bacon)
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### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:**
- Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes and place them in a bowl.
- Season the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. **Wrap with Bacon:**
- Take each seasoned chicken cube and wrap it with a half-slice of bacon. Secure the bacon with a toothpick to hold it in place.
3. **Optional Glaze:**
- If you want a sweet glaze, mix brown sugar or honey with a little olive oil or melted butter. Brush this mixture over the bacon-wrapped chicken bites.
4. **Cook:**
- **Oven Method:**
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the bacon-wrapped chicken bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- **Air Fryer Method:**
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked.
- **Stovetop Method:**
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil.
- Cook the bacon-wrapped chicken bites, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through (about 15-20 minutes).
5. **Serve:**
- Remove the toothpicks before serving.
- Serve hot as an appetizer or main dish, with your favorite dipping sauce (e.g., ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard).
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Enjoy your crispy, savory, and juicy **Chicken Bites Wrapped in Bacon**! 🥓🍗