If you’re craving something savory, sweet, and completely irresistible, this Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken recipe will hit the spot. Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a golden crust, wrapped in crispy bacon, and smothered in a rich honey garlic glaze. It’s the kind of comfort food that feels like a gourmet meal but is surprisingly easy to make at home.
In this blog post, you’ll learn how to make this flavorful dish step-by-step, plus expert tips, variations, and answers to common questions. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a cozy dinner, Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken will steal the show.
Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken
This chicken recipe has all the elements of a perfect meal:
Crispy bacon adds a salty crunch.
Honey garlic glaze brings sweetness and depth.
Pan-fried chicken offers juicy tenderness and flavor.
Quick and easy to make with simple pantry staples.
From weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this honey garlic bacon chicken, gather the following ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
4 cloves garlic, minced
⅓ cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
These ingredients come together to create a sticky, savory glaze that coats the chicken and bacon beautifully.
How to Make Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken
This recipe comes together in just a few steps. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Season with salt and pepper on both sides.
Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off any excess.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.
Drain some bacon grease from the pan, leaving about 1–2 tablespoons behind.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Add olive oil to the skillet if needed.
Sear the floured chicken breasts in the hot pan for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and mostly cooked through.
Remove chicken and set aside briefly.
Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Stir in honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken to the skillet.
Spoon the sauce over the top.
Sprinkle cooked bacon over the chicken.
Cover and simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F).
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Serving Suggestions
Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Try it with:
Garlic mashed potatoes
Steamed broccoli or green beans
Rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce
A crisp green salad for balance
It also makes a great meal prep option—simply store in airtight containers and reheat throughout the week.
Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken
Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture and flavor.
Do not skip the flour coating—it helps the sauce stick to the chicken and adds a crispy crust.
Control the sweetness by adjusting the honey to your taste.
Deglaze the pan with a splash of water or broth if needed to lift all that delicious flavor.
Recipe Variations
This honey garlic bacon chicken is versatile. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy twist.
Swap soy sauce for coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
Top with shredded cheese before serving for a cheesy version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. You can cook the bacon and prepare the sauce in advance. When ready to serve, sear the chicken, combine everything, and heat through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Can I bake this recipe instead?
Yes. After searing the chicken, transfer everything to an oven-safe dish and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Nutritional Highlights
While indulgent, this recipe offers a good balance of protein and energy:
Chicken breasts provide lean protein.
Garlic offers antioxidants and flavor.
Honey gives natural sweetness in moderation.
To reduce calories, use less honey and drain excess bacon fat before combining ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken is one of those unforgettable dishes that blend sweet, salty, and savory in every bite. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself to a better-than-takeout meal, this recipe is sure to become a regular on your dinner table.
It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but delicious enough for special occasions. And with just one skillet needed, cleanup is a breeze.
Share and Connect
Did you try this Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to share a photo on Instagram or Pinterest and tag us so we can see your delicious creation.
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