Spicy Maple Bacon Bites: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the maple syrup mixture for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Bacon Bites: After baking, sprinkle some shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) over the chicken bites and return to the oven for 2-3 minutes until melted.
Herbed Chicken Bites: Add a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or parsley) to the chicken before wrapping it in bacon for a more aromatic flavor.
Tips:
Bacon Crispiness: If you prefer extra crispy bacon, broil the bites for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Watch carefully to avoid burning!
Chicken Alternatives: Use chicken thighs for a juicier option, or swap out the chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist.
Make Ahead: Assemble the bites in advance and store them in the fridge. When ready, just bake them according to the instructions. Perfect for parties!
Cooking Time: Cooking time may vary based on the size of your chicken pieces and bacon thickness. Check that the chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).