Ranch Bacon Wrapped Chicken: What Most People Do Wrong
Tired of boring chicken? Wrap it in bacon and ranch! This Ranch Bacon Wrapped Chicken is a game-changer. Try it today.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Ranch Bacon
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
- 8-12 strips of thick-cut bacon
- 2 packets ranch seasoning mix
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
Optional Flavor Enhancers
- 4 oz cream cheese
- ¼ cup fresh chives chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Foundation (5 minutes)
- Pat chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture
- If breasts are thick (over 1 inch), gently pound to even 3/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet
- Season both sides generously with ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper
- Key Tip: Let seasoned chicken sit for 10 minutes at room temperature for deeper flavor penetration
Step 2: Master the Bacon Wrapping Technique (5 minutes)
- Lay bacon strips flat and wrap each seasoned chicken breast with 2-3 strips, overlapping by half an inch
- Start wrapping from the thickest part, working toward the tapered end for uniform coverage
- Use toothpicks to secure the bacon ends, making sure they pierce through the chicken and bacon.
- Pro Technique: Tuck bacon ends underneath to prevent unraveling during cooking
Step 3: Searing for Maximum Flavor Development (8 minutes)
- Heat olive oil in oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering
- Carefully place ranch bacon wrapped chicken seam-side down, allowing 2 inches between pieces
- Sear undisturbed for 4 minutes until bacon begins browning and releases easily
- Flip gently using tongs and sear opposite side 3-4 minutes until bacon crisps beautifully
Step 4: Oven Finishing for Perfect Doneness (20 minutes)
- Place the hot skillet straight into an oven that has been preheated to 375°F (the handle will be very hot).
- Bake 18-22 minutes until internal temperature reaches exactly 165°F
- Using an instant-read thermometer to check the thickest area for food safety is a critical success factor.
Step 5: Rest and Final Presentation (5 minutes)
- Remove from oven and tent loosely with foil
- Let rest 5 minutes to redistribute juices throughout the meat
- Remove all toothpicks carefully before slicing and serving
Notes
Expert Secrets for Flawless Ranch Bacon Wrapped Chicken
Temperature Control Mastery:- Start with room temperature chicken for even cooking
- Don’t skip the searing step – it locks in 40% more flavor
- Internal temperature must reach exactly 165°F, no higher to prevent dryness
- Choose thick-cut bacon for better wrapping and texture
- Partially cook bacon for 2-3 minutes if you prefer extra crispiness
- To keep the bacon from breaking when cooking, don’t stretch it too tightly.
- For caramelization, combine ranch seasoning with a little amount of brown sugar.
- For a more profound flavor penetration, add the spice half an hour before cooking.
- Save some ranch seasoning to sprinkle on top before serving
Per Serving (1 wrapped chicken breast):
- Calories: 485
- Protein: 58g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fiber: 0g