There’s something magical about the combination of juicy chicken breast and crispy bacon—it’s a match made in culinary heaven. As someone who loves experimenting with quick yet delicious meals, I can confidently say that air fryer bacon-wrapped chicken breast is a game-changer. It’s flavorful, easy to make, and comes out perfectly cooked every time, with minimal cleanup.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes or an impressive dish to serve guests, this recipe delivers. The air fryer locks in moisture while crisping the bacon to perfection, creating a dish that’s both tender and packed with smoky, savory goodness. Let’s dive into how you can make this irresistible meal at home!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken breast: The star of the dish, boneless and skinless chicken breast stays tender when cooked properly. Opt for evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate.
Bacon: Thin or regular-cut bacon works best—it crisps up beautifully in the air fryer while keeping the chicken moist. Smoky or maple-flavored bacon adds an extra layer of flavor.
Olive oil: A light brushing of olive oil helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and promotes even browning.
Seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika): A simple yet powerful blend that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and bacon. You can also add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
Toothpicks or kitchen twine: These help secure the bacon around the chicken so it doesn’t unravel during cooking.
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4-6 slices of bacon (thin or regular-cut)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
How to Make Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks well. If the breasts are uneven in thickness, lightly pound them to an even size for consistent cooking.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then rub in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Make sure both sides are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Wrap with Bacon
Take 2-3 bacon slices per chicken breast and wrap them tightly around, slightly overlapping. Secure the ends with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent unraveling.
Step 4: Air Fry
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the bacon-wrapped chicken in the basket, leaving space between each piece. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices locked in for a perfectly moist bite.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Even Thickness: Pound thicker parts of the chicken breast for uniform cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space in the air fryer for proper air circulation.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Crispier Bacon: For extra crispiness, brush the bacon with a little maple syrup or brown sugar before cooking.
- Variations: Add cream cheese or cheddar inside the chicken before wrapping for a cheesy twist.
FAQs
Can I use turkey bacon instead?
Yes, but it won’t crisp up as much as pork bacon. You may need to cook it slightly longer.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
Can I bake this in the oven instead?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
What sides go well with this dish? Try roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
This air fryer bacon-wrapped chicken breast is a foolproof way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home—simple, flavorful, and irresistibly delicious!