Name: Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites: Sweet & Smoky Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs for more richness); 2 tbsp Heath Riles BBQ Honey Chipotle BBQ Rub (or any similar sweet and spicy BBQ rub); 2 tbsp Heath Riles BBQ Chicken Rub (or your favorite chicken seasoning); 1 lb bacon (any type of bacon); 0.5 cup light brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier twist); 0.5 cup Heath Riles BBQ Brown Sugar Honey Habanero BBQ Glaze (or preferred BBQ sauce mixed with honey)

As I stood in my kitchen, the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling bacon filled the air, instantly transforming my surroundings into a cozy haven. That’s the magic of these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites – they combine juicy chicken with a sweet, smoky twist that’s simply irresistible! Perfect for any gathering or casual weeknight dinner, this dish not only brings the crowd together but also lets you indulge in something that’s high in protein and low in carbs. With straightforward prep and quick cooking, you can whip up these tasty bites without a hitch. Curious to know how to elevate your appetizer game with this delightful recipe? Let’s dive in!

Why Are These Chicken Bites So Special?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet brown sugar and smoky bacon creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Effortless Preparation: With a simple method that requires minimal ingredients, you can easily make these delicious bites without the hassle.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, these bites are a hit at parties or game days, ensuring your table stays full and lively!

High-Protein Goodness: Not only are they delicious, but they’re also packed with protein, making them a healthier option for your loved ones.

Perfect with Dips: Pair them with your favorite sauces, like ranch or a spicy aioli, for an added dimension of flavor.

Elevate your appetizer game with these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites and don’t forget to check out other crowd-pleasers like Cheesy Garlic Chicken or Buffalo Chicken Taquitos for more delicious options!

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites Ingredients

• Get ready to create these scrumptious bites!

For the Chicken

Boneless skinless chicken breasts – The tender base that provides juicy bites; feel free to swap with chicken thighs for more richness.
Heath Riles BBQ Honey Chipotle BBQ Rub – Adds a delightful hint of sweetness and heat; any similar sweet and spicy BBQ rub can be used instead.
Heath Riles BBQ Chicken Rub – Elevates the chicken’s flavor with a blend of spices; substitute with your favorite chicken seasoning if needed.

For the Wrap

Bacon – Offers a crispy and savory layer for your chicken; any type of bacon will do, even budget-friendly varieties!

For the Coating

½ cup light brown sugar – Infuses sweetness and caramelization for a delectable finish; coconut sugar is a great substitute for a healthier twist.
Heath Riles BBQ Brown Sugar Honey Habanero BBQ Glaze – This glaze adds a final burst of flavor and shine; swap with your preferred BBQ sauce mixed with honey for a similar taste.

Get ready to savor these irresistible Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites with their delightful mix of flavors, and enjoy the joy they bring to your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites

Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Begin by preheating your Traeger Ironwood XL grill to 275°F. Use Royal Oak Charcoal Hardwood Pellets for that extra flavor infusion. This temperature is ideal for achieving tender, juicy chicken bites while allowing the brown sugar to caramelize perfectly on the bacon wrap.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Trim the boneless skinless chicken breasts, then slice them into nugget-sized pieces, keeping them uniform for even cooking. As you cut, ensure each piece is roughly the same size to guarantee they all cook through evenly and become the delightful base for your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with both Heath Riles BBQ rubs, ensuring each nugget is evenly coated. Use your hands to mix thoroughly or a spatula for an even distribution, allowing those spices to infuse the chicken, enhancing the flavor profile that complements the brown sugar and bacon.

Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
Next, cut the bacon strips into thirds. Take each chicken piece and wrap a piece of bacon around it, securing it with a toothpick—2 to 3 pieces per skewer works best for easy handling and an attractive presentation. This wrapping adds that crispy, savory layer to the bites, making them irresistible.

Step 5: Add the Sweet Coating
In a small bowl, mix the light brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of each BBQ rub. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the wrapped chicken, ensuring each piece is covered on all sides. This sweet coating will create a deliciously caramelized crust as the chicken bites cook on the grill.

Step 6: Grill the Chicken Bites
Place the chicken bites on the preheated grill, ensuring they are spaced out to allow even cooking. Grill for about 45 minutes, checking periodically. You’ll know they are done when the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through, reaching a juicy internal temperature.

Step 7: Glaze and Finish Cooking
At the 45-minute mark, brush the BBQ glaze over the chicken bites for that extra flavor kick. Close the lid and cook for an additional 15 minutes to allow the glaze to adhere and create a beautiful sheen. This step is crucial for enhancing the sweetness and smokiness of your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the internal temperature reaches a safe level, remove the chicken bites from the grill and let them cool slightly. Serve warm and enjoy the crispy, sweet, and smoky flavors. These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites are perfect for snacking or serving as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering.

Storage Tips for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites

Fridge: Store leftover Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This way, you can enjoy their delicious flavors throughout the week without any fuss.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 5 months, perfect for quick meals!

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This helps retain their crispy exterior and juicy interior.

Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, it’s best to keep the cooked bites warm and covered for up to 2 hours to maintain their delicious flavor and texture.

Tips for the Best Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites

Marinade Magic: For deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the BBQ rub overnight. This intensifies the taste before cooking.
Uniform Cuts: Ensure the chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking. This will prevent any bites from being undercooked or overcooked.
Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid placing too many bites on the grill at once; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Space them out for better heat distribution.
Monitor Bacon Crispiness: Keep a close eye on the bacon as it cooks. Depending on your grill’s heat, you may need to adjust cooking time to achieve the perfect crisp.
Serving Temperature: Chicken bites are best served warm to enhance that delightful combination of sweet and smoky flavors. Enjoy them fresh off the grill!

Make Ahead Options

These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites are perfect for busy home cooks looking to meal prep in advance! You can season the chicken and wrap it with bacon up to 24 hours ahead of time—simply store the prepared bites in a covered dish in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. To finish, just grill them directly from the fridge for about 45 minutes, then glaze with BBQ sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This way, you can savor the same delicious flavor and crispy texture without the hassle, making your entertaining or weeknight meals a breeze!

What to Serve with Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

As you savor these sweet and savory delights, let’s explore some delightful pairings to create a memorable meal experience.

Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side refreshes the palate. The coolness balances the rich flavors of the chicken bites beautifully.
Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes add a comforting element to your meal. Their smooth texture complements the crispy chicken perfectly.
Roasted Asparagus: A pop of vibrant color, roasted asparagus offers a refreshing crunch and slightly nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rich bacon.
Spicy BBQ Sauce: Serving a side of fiery BBQ sauce takes flavor to the next level! It adds an exciting kick that complements the sweet and smoky notes in the chicken bites.
Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: This adds a delightful sweet tang to every bite. Pairing this with the chicken elevates the dining experience.
Chilled White Wine: The light, crisp notes of a chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhance the flavors, creating an enjoyable dining atmosphere.

Imagine a cozy gathering filled with laughter while holding a plate of these chicken bites, alongside a quick dip into that honey mustard sauce! Pairing your dish with these suggestions ensures a delightful experience for you and your guests.

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites Variations

Feel free to tailor these bites to your heart’s desire with some fun and flavorful swaps!

Spicy Twist: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the chicken rub for an extra kick. The heat beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in the seasoning to create an aromatic experience. These herbs complement the savory bacon and add depth to the flavor.
Pineapple Sweetness: Wrap a small pineapple chunk with the chicken before wrapping it with bacon. This addition brings a delightful tropical flavor, reminiscent of a Hawaiian BBQ.
Sweet Heat: Mix a spoonful of Sriracha into the BBQ glaze for a sweet and spicy glaze that tantalizes your taste buds. This fiery touch will keep everyone reaching for more!
Tex-Mex Flavor: Swap out the BBQ rubs for taco seasoning and serve with guacamole for a zesty twist. These smoky bites will play perfectly with creamy avocado.
Bacon Alternatives: Try turkey bacon for a lower-fat option, or even a vegan alternative to suit dietary preferences. You’ll still get to enjoy that satisfying crispy texture.
Stuffed Delight: Add a small piece of cheese, like pepper jack or cheddar, inside the chicken bites before wrapping them in bacon. They’ll ooze deliciousness when you take a bite!
Dipping Sauces: Pair these bites with an assortment of sauces like tangy ranch, sweet honey mustard, or homemade spicy aioli to elevate the snacking experience. Everyone can mix and match their favorites!

Try out these variations and discover how easy it is to make these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites fit your flavor profile! Don’t forget to explore other recipes like Hot Honey Chicken or Salmon Bites Zesty for more exciting options!

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for these bites?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts for a tender base, but you can also substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Thighs work beautifully with the sweetness of brown sugar and the smokiness of bacon!

How should I store leftover chicken bites?
To keep your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet for a few hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’re good for about 5 months this way!

Can I freeze the chicken bites? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites, first, allow them to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the bites to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

What should I do if my bacon isn’t getting crispy?
If your bacon isn’t crisping up as expected, make sure that you’re not overcrowding the grill. Each piece needs space for the heat to circulate. Additionally, you can increase the cooking temperature slightly to help render the fat faster, but keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking.

Are these chicken bites suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, indeed! These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites are high in protein and low in carbs, especially when served without heavy sauces. Just watch the amount of glaze you use, as some BBQ sauces can add sugar. For a healthier option, look for sugar-free BBQ sauces or simply add a light drizzle.

Can I use a different type of bacon?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely use any type of bacon you prefer, whether it’s regular, thick-cut, or even turkey bacon for a lighter alternative. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the bacon!