Name: Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites for a Sweet & Savory Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Cut into nugget-sized pieces.); 2 tablespoons Heath Riles BBQ Honey Chipotle BBQ Rub; 2 tablespoons Heath Riles BBQ Chicken Rub; 1 pound Bacon (Crispy bacon complements the chicken.); 0.5 cups Light Brown Sugar (Creates a sweet, sticky texture.); 1 tablespoon Heath Riles BBQ Brown Sugar Honey Habanero BBQ Glaze (For finishing glaze.)

As I stood by the grill, a tantalizing aroma filled the air—a sweet and smoky promise of delight. These Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites are not just appetizers; they’re a testament to the joy of home cooking. Each tender piece of chicken enveloped in crispy bacon creates the perfect savory-sweet balance, making them an irresistible snack for any occasion. What’s more, this easy-to-make recipe ensures you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying delicious bites with your loved ones. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or hosting a casual gathering, these crowd-pleasers are sure to have everyone reaching for seconds. Ready to elevate your next event with a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful? Let’s dive into making these delightful bites that will leave your guests raving!

Why Will You Love These Chicken Bites?

Simplicity at Its Best: The preparation process is quick and uncomplicated, perfect for any home cook, regardless of skill level.

Sweet and Savory Delight: Each bite brings a delightful contrast of sweetness from brown sugar and the savory richness of bacon, making it a rich flavor experience.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These bites are not just appetizers; they’re guaranteed to steal the show at any gathering, from game days to family parties.

Versatile Pairings: Serve them with your choice of dipping sauces like ranch or BBQ for an added flavor twist. For more scrumptious sides, check out Party Style Wings!

Leftover Love: If you have any left, they store beautifully and can be enjoyed later, offering deliciousness that lasts.

Get ready to impress with these Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites—they’re set to be your new go-to recipe!

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites Ingredients

• Discover all you need for this delightful dish!

For the Chicken Bites

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Ensure they’re cut into nugget-sized pieces for perfect bite-size treats.
Heath Riles BBQ Honey Chipotle BBQ Rub – This adds a sweet and spicy touch that’s hard to resist.
Heath Riles BBQ Chicken Rub – Enhance the natural chicken flavor with this delicious blend.
Bacon – Opt for your preferred brand; the crispiness complements the chicken beautifully.

For the Coating

½ cup Light Brown Sugar – This caramelizes to create that delightful sweet, sticky texture.
Heath Riles BBQ Brown Sugar Honey Habanero BBQ Glaze – This finishing glaze adds shine and an extra layer of delicious flavor to your bites.

Get ready to savor these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites that will leave your guests craving more!

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

Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Start by preheating your Traeger Ironwood XL (or any pellet grill) to 275°F. Use Royal Oak Charcoal Hardwood Pellets for optimal flavor. This initial step is crucial as it allows for even cooking, ensuring that your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites get that perfect smoky essence.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken
While the grill heats up, take your boneless skinless chicken breasts and trim away any hard fat. Cut the chicken into nugget-sized pieces, making them easy to handle and perfect for wrapping. Aim for uniform sizes so that each piece cooks evenly when grilling.

Step 3: Season Chicken
In a bowl, generously coat the chicken pieces with Heath Riles BBQ Honey Chipotle BBQ Rub and Chicken Rub. Stir well to ensure every piece is thoroughly seasoned with the sweet and spicy flavors. This step enhances the natural taste of the chicken and makes your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites truly unforgettable.

Step 4: Wrap Chicken
Now, grab your bacon and slice it into thirds. Take one chicken piece, wrap it with bacon tightly, and secure it with a toothpick. Repeat this process for the rest, placing 2-3 bacon-wrapped chicken bites per skewer. This assembly not only makes them easy to handle but adds a delightful crispy layer.

Step 5: Prepare Brown Sugar Mix
In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of light brown sugar with 1 tablespoon each of BBQ Chicken Rub and Honey Chipotle Rub. Mix thoroughly until well blended. This sugary mixture will caramelize beautifully during cooking, adding a sweet stickiness to your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites.

Step 6: Coat Chicken
Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture liberally over the bacon-wrapped chicken pieces, making sure each side is well coated. Let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors, which will elevate the taste and texture of your bites when they’re grilled.

Step 7: Cook
Place the prepared bites on the grill grates and close the lid. Let them cook for about 45 minutes. Watch for the bacon to become crispy and the chicken to reach a juicy, tender state. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown color to signal they’re on the right track.

Step 8: Glaze and Finish
After 45 minutes, brush your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites with Heath Riles BBQ Brown Sugar Honey Habanero BBQ Glaze on both sides. Return them to the grill for another 15 minutes. This second cooking phase will caramelize the glaze, giving your bites a shiny, flavorful finish.

Step 9: Serve
Once the cooking time is complete, remove the chicken bites from the grill and let them cool slightly on a platter. The bacon will be crisp, and the chicken tender. Serve warm, allowing your guests to enjoy each delicious bite, which is sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful chicken bites and make them your own!

Thigh Substitute: Swap boneless skinless chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a richer flavor and tender texture.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning rub for a spicy kick that will delight heat lovers.
Smoky Flavor Boost: Incorporate smoked paprika into your seasoning mix for an extra depth of smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with bacon.
Sweet & Heat Glaze: Use a chipotle honey glaze instead of the standard for a unique sweet and spicy finish that will mesmerize taste buds.
Herb-Infused Chicken: Mix fresh chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme into your seasoning for added freshness and flavor. These can beautifully complement the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Dipping Delights: Serve with a zesty cilantro lime dip or classic ranch dressing. For more options, try these with Party Style Wings for a generous platter.
Veggie Version: Replace chicken with firm tofu for a vegetarian alternative that still retains the sweet and savory flavor profile.

With these variations, you can tailor your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites to any palate, ensuring a satisfying experience for everyone at your gathering!

What to Serve with Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

Elevate your snack experience with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement these savory-sweet bites.

Creamy Coleslaw: This classic side adds creamy crunch, balancing the rich flavors of the bacon-wrapped chicken.
Spicy Potato Wedges: Crispy and seasoned to perfection, these wedges bring an extra heat that pairs beautifully with the sweet chicken bites.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and warm, they can be dipped in leftover BBQ sauce, making each bite even more delicious.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A blend of juicy fruits cuts through the richness of the meat, offering a refreshing contrast on your plate.
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: These spicy, crispy bites are a vegetarian twist that compliments the sweetness, providing a satisfying crunch.
Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: This tangy sauce enhances the flavor profile of the chicken bites, making every dip memorable.
Crisp Green Salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint, balancing the richness of the bacon.
Cold Beer: A light lager is perfect; its effervescence refreshes the palate between each heavenly bite.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these cookies offer a sweet finish to your meal, keeping the flavor journey delightful and satisfying.

Make Ahead Options

These Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites are perfect for meal prep! You can season and wrap the chicken bites up to 24 hours in advance, making it a breeze to enjoy delicious appetizers during busy weeknights. Simply prepare the chicken as directed and store the wrapped bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. To maintain their quality, be sure to coat them in the brown sugar mix just before grilling, preventing any moisture from compromising the flavors. When it’s time to serve, grill the bites as instructed for a quick and satisfying treat that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh!

Expert Tips for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites

Uniform Cutting: Make sure to cut the chicken into nugget-sized pieces evenly. This will prevent some pieces from overcooking while others remain undercooked.
Bacon Choice: Feel free to use any brand of bacon, but remember that budget-friendly options can be just as crispy and delicious when smoked properly.
Flavor Enhancement: For a deeper flavor, consider marinating your chicken overnight or brining it for a few hours before preparation. This will make your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites even more succulent.
Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the grilling process; factors like grill temperature and chicken size can affect cooking times. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Garnish Options: Experiment with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives as a finishing touch. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh taste to your bites.
Serve Fresh: These chicken bites are best enjoyed immediately after cooking. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to maintain their deliciousness!

How to Store and Freeze Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their crispy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 5 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy. Enjoy the delightful flavors again!

Room Temperature: If you’re serving at a gathering, keep them at room temperature for no longer than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe and fresh ingredients for my chicken bites?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken breasts, look for those that are pink and plump, with no dark spots or an off odor. For the bacon, select slices that are firm and fresh. Fresh herbs, if used for garnishing, should be vibrant and fragrant.

What is the best way to store Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites?
For short-term storage, place the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Ensure they cool completely to keep their crispy texture. You can easily reheat them in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-grill taste!

Can I freeze Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Bites?
Very! To freeze, arrange the chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 5 months! For reheating, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.

What are some common issues that occur during the cooking process?
If the bacon isn’t crispy after cooking, it may be due to overcrowding on the grill or not using enough heat. Ensure there’s space between each bite for even airflow. If you find the chicken is dry, it may have been cooked at too high a temperature; always aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to keep it juicy.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re serving these bites at a gathering, it’s essential to ask about allergies, particularly concerning bacon and any seasoning blends. If you’re cooking for pets, remember that bacon is high in fat, which isn’t ideal for them. Always check with your guests for any dietary restrictions to ensure everyone can enjoy this treat!