Irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites with BBQ Glaze

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There are few things more crowd-pleasing than the perfect balance of crispy, savory bacon and tender, juicy chicken. Add a sticky-sweet, smoky BBQ glaze to the mix, and you’ve got a surefire appetizer that will steal the show at any party, game day gathering, or family dinner. These Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites with BBQ Glaze are more than just a recipe—they’re a moment of flavor-packed joy.

Whether you’re looking for a new finger food to impress at your next potluck or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner game with minimal effort, this recipe is your new go-to. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and easy to customize. Plus, it’s oven-baked, making it both hassle-free and perfect year-round—no grill required.

Let’s dive into why these bacon-wrapped bites are worth every savory, sticky bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chicken bites are the ultimate trifecta of texture and flavor: crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and a smoky-sweet BBQ glaze that caramelizes to perfection in the oven. They’re bite-sized, making them ideal for entertaining or snacking, and the ingredients are pantry staples—nothing fancy, just real, simple flavor.

Here’s why this recipe works for just about everyone:

  • Perfect for picky eaters – Chicken and bacon are universally loved, and the BBQ glaze can be customized to suit different heat levels or sweetness preferences.
  • Great for gatherings – These hold up well on platters and can be kept warm in a slow cooker.
  • Low-carb/keto-friendly option – Skip the sugary BBQ sauce or use a sugar-free variety for a keto-friendly appetizer.
  • Kid-approved – Bite-sized and fun to eat, even picky little eaters will enjoy them.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Bites:

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces 🍗
  • 8–10 slices of bacon, cut in half 🥓
  • 1 tsp garlic powder 🧄
  • 1 tsp onion powder 🧅
  • 1/2 tsp paprika 🌶️
  • Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste 🧂
  • Toothpicks (to hold the bacon in place) 🦷

For the BBQ Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade) 🍖
  • 1 tbsp honey 🍯
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar 🍎
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce 🍶
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (for extra smoky flavor)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make these delicious bites, you’ll need the following tools:

  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Mixing bowls
  • Small saucepan
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil
  • Basting brush
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Meat thermometer (recommended for perfect doneness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil for easy cleanup. Cut chicken breasts into 1–1.5 inch cubes. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken in the spice mix until evenly coated.

2. Wrap with Bacon

Wrap each piece of seasoned chicken with half a slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. Place the wrapped bites on your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them to allow for even cooking.

3. Make the BBQ Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened—about 5–7 minutes. Set aside.

4. Bake

Bake the chicken bites for 20–25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). About halfway through baking, baste each bite with the BBQ glaze for extra flavor and caramelization.

5. Serve

Once fully cooked and golden, remove from the oven. Let them cool slightly, remove toothpicks, and drizzle with remaining BBQ glaze before serving.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Chicken Bites

  • Use thin bacon: It crisps up better and cooks more evenly than thick-cut bacon.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spacing helps the bacon crisp up instead of steaming.
  • For extra glaze: Double the BBQ glaze recipe and serve a little on the side for dipping.
  • Make ahead: Assemble the bites the night before and bake when ready to serve.
  • Short on time? Use precooked bacon and finish under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp things up.

Variations & Swaps

Don’t be afraid to get creative with these bites. Here are a few fun ideas to customize them:

  • Spicy version: Add cayenne pepper to the spice rub or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
  • Sweet heat: Add a pinch of brown sugar or use maple syrup in the glaze for a sweet kick.
  • Cheesy bites: Insert a small cube of cheddar or pepper jack in the center of each chicken piece before wrapping in bacon.
  • Turkey bacon: For a lighter option, swap in turkey bacon (note: it won’t get as crispy, so broil at the end if needed).
  • Pineapple twist: Tuck a small piece of pineapple into the chicken bite for a tropical-sweet variation.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storage: Place leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat Options:

  • Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until heated through.
  • Air Fryer: Crisp them up at 375°F for 5–6 minutes.
  • Microwave: Use for a quick reheat (note: bacon may lose some crispiness).

Pro Tip: Store leftover glaze separately and brush it on after reheating to freshen the flavor.

What to Serve with Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites

These bites are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a range of sides and beverages.

Perfect Pairings:

  • Side Dishes:
    • Classic coleslaw
    • Garlic mashed potatoes
    • Roasted Brussels sprouts
    • Cornbread muffins
  • Dips & Sauces:
    • Ranch or blue cheese
    • Extra BBQ sauce
    • Chipotle mayo
  • Drinks:
    • A crisp lager or smoky porter
    • Sweet iced tea
    • Sparkling apple cider
    • Bourbon-based cocktails for adult gatherings

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay juicy and flavorful and are a great alternative if you prefer dark meat.

Can I grill these instead of baking?

Yes! Grill over medium heat, turning occasionally and basting with glaze, until chicken is fully cooked and bacon is crisp—about 15–20 minutes.

Are these freezer-friendly?

Yes! Freeze fully cooked bites in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

What BBQ sauce works best?

Use your favorite! Sweet, smoky, or spicy all work—just make sure it’s thick enough to glaze nicely. Homemade or store-bought both shine here.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Just use a gluten-free BBQ sauce and double-check your Worcestershire sauce (some brands contain gluten).

Final Thoughts

These Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites with BBQ Glaze are the kind of dish that disappears minutes after hitting the table. With a perfect balance of smokiness, sweetness, and savory goodness, they’re bound to become a repeat request in your home.

Perfect for everything from game day snacks to casual entertaining, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.

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