Best Chicken Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs

Let’s be honest: wrapping something in bacon is a time-tested shortcut to flavor euphoria. This recipe for bacon-wrapped chicken thighs take that idea to new heights, folding butterflied chicken thighs around slices of pear and optional Brie, then wrapping it all in bacon for a crisp, savory shell. The internal mix of fruit and mild cheese cuts through the fat and delivers a surprising, elegant bite.

Because the ingredients—chicken thighs, bacon, pear, spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and optional cheese—contain no wheat, barley, or gluten-containing thickeners, this recipe is naturally gluten-friendly. Just be sure your bacon and any cheese you use are free from hidden gluten in additives or flavorings.

This is a dish that performs. It looks dramatic, tastes layered, and showcases technique without overcomplication. Fold in pear slices for acidity and textural contrast, tuck in creamy Brie for richness (if your diet allows), and let the bacon seal in juices and flavor. Whether for a special dinner or weekend feast, this recipe turns thighs into something you’ll brag about.

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Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs

Recipe Ingredients

• Boneless chicken thighs, butterflied
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Bartlett pears, thinly sliced
• Brie cheese, thinly sliced (optional – leave out for Paleo)
• Bacon

How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs

1. Place butterflied chicken thighs onto a baking pan lined with parchment paper and sprinkle spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, salt) on top.
2. Place 1 slice of brie (or any cheese you like) and 1 to 2 slices of pear atop each chicken thigh.
3. Fold chicken thigh to close it, then wrap it in bacon, tucking the end of the bacon into itself to seal.
4. Sprinkle more spice blend over the top.
5. Bake in oven at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.
6. At the last 3 to 4 minutes, bring the oven temperature to broil to crisp the bacon.

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Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per serving (assuming 4 servings). Based strictly on Thrive Market’s ingredient amounts.

Serving Size	1 thigh
Calories	≈ 350 kcal
Protein	≈ 33 g
Carbs	≈ 6 g
Sugar	≈ 5 g
Fiber	≈ 1 g
Fat	≈ 21 g

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Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs Variations & Tips

• Skip the cheese: Omit the Brie for a fully dairy-free version—pear still adds brightness and moisture.
• Fruit alternatives: Use apple slices, green apple, or even thin mango slices in place of pear for different sweetness/acid balance.
• Herb infusion: Toss chopped sage, thyme, or rosemary into the pear or under the bacon wrap for an herbal note.
• Spice tweak: Adjust cinnamon, nutmeg, or add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the seasoning blend for warmth or heat.
• Seal technique: Tuck the end of the bacon strip under or overlap it to lock the wrap in place and avoid unraveling while cooking.
• Finish with broil: Bake for most of the time at 350 °F, then shift to broil for the last few minutes to crisp up the bacon edges.
• Watch timing: Don’t overcook—the internal ingredients (pear, cheese) can dry out; remove when bacon is crisp and chicken is just done.

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Best Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thigh Pairings

• Roasted root vegetables: Carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips add earthiness to balance the richness.
• Simple greens with acid: A salad with arugula or spinach dressed with lemon or vinaigrette cuts through the fat.
• Mashed cauliflower or potatoes: Use creamy mashed side to soak up any juices from the pork-wrapped chicken.
• Grilled or steamed asparagus or green beans: Light, crisp vegetables contrast the dense, wrapped protein.
• Grain bowls or quinoa: Use slices of the thighs over a bed of quinoa or wild rice with veggies and sauce.
• Fruit compote or chutney: A light fruit sauce pairs well with the pear and bacon’s sweet-salty interplay.

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When to Make Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs

• Date nights or dinner parties: Impressive presentation and bold flavor make this a standout entrée.
• Special holiday meals: Works for Easter, Christmas, or any celebratory dinner where you want something elevated.
• Weekend feasts or Sunday dinners: A luxurious dish for when you have time to cook thoughtfully.
• Protein-forward menus: Great when you want a meaty main that feels upscale but doesn’t require excessive sides.
• Cook-ahead option: Assemble early and bake when your guests arrive to reduce day-of stress.

Video credits
Produced and Directed by: Liza Glucoft
Director of Photography: Naeem Munaf
Editor: Stephanie Provence