Ingredients:

  • 2 large (approx. 1.3 lbs) Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast, cut into 20 even cubes
  • 10 slices Regular-Cut Bacon, halved crosswise (20 pieces total)
  • 1/4 cup packed Light Brown Sugar
  • 1 Tbsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme or Oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1/2 cup High-Quality BBQ Sauce
  • 1 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and set a wire rack directly on top. This rack is essential for crispy bacon.
  2. Prepare the Sticky Rub: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, thyme or oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until thoroughly mixed.
  3. Season the Chicken: Place the cubed chicken pieces in a medium bowl. Sprinkle about two-thirds of the rub mixture over the chicken and toss thoroughly to coat every piece evenly.
  4. Wrap the Bites: Take one piece of seasoned chicken and firmly wrap a half-slice of regular-cut bacon around it. Secure the bacon tightly using a wooden toothpick pushed through the center of the bite.
  5. Final Seasoning: Place the wrapped bites seam-side down on the prepared wire rack. Sprinkle the remaining one-third of the dry rub lightly over the top of the wrapped bacon.
  6. Initial Bake: Bake the bites for 20 minutes. This rendering stage allows the bacon fat to drain off.
  7. Prepare the Glaze: While the bites are baking, lightly warm the BBQ sauce (and vinegar, if using) in a small saucepan or microwave for easier brushing.
  8. Glaze Application: After 20 minutes, remove the tray. Brush the BBQ glaze generously over the top of each bacon-wrapped bite.
  9. Return to Oven: Return the tray to the oven and continue baking for another 8–10 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the glaze is bubbling and slightly caramelized. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
  10. Rest and Serve: Remove the bites from the oven and allow them to rest on the rack for 5 minutes. Remove the toothpicks immediately before serving.