Make this low carb Bacon Wrapped Chicken with thighs, breasts, or even tenderloins. Season first and then lock in the flavor (and moisture) with smoky bacon. This easy main dish is a total crowd pleaser that pairs with just about anything.
Heat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Trim excess fat from the chicken thighs, then pat very dry. Be sure to “unwrap” the chicken thighs so they lay flat.
Combine the dry rub in a small bowl and stir until well combined. Season the chicken all over with the dry rub mixture.
Wrap two pieces of bacon around each piece of chicken. Start one end on the underside and try to wrap the other piece around to the underside as well - you’ll want to try to have each of the ends on the same side of the chicken to create a “seam side” and a non-seam side.
Arrange the chicken seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of the chicken and bacon with the maple syrup, if using.
Transfer to the oven and bake 25 minutes. Flip the oven to the High Broil setting and cook 3 minutes more, just long enough to fully crisp the bacon. Check to make sure the internal temperature reads 165°F.
Brush the chicken with the pan juices, then rest 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired, and serve.
Notes
Variation: Chicken TenderloinsSeason the tenderloins, then wrap each with 1 slice of bacon. Arrange on a parchment lined baking sheet and bake 15 minutes. Flip the oven to the High Broil setting and cook 3 minutes more, just long enough to fully crisp the bacon. Check to make sure the internal temperature reads 165°F.Nutritional Information without maple syrup (for Keto and Whole30): Fat 20g; Carbs 1g; Fiber 1g; Protein 52g.