Quick and Easy Bacon-Wrapped Chicken with Fluffy Rice

Craving a delicious meal that’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This bacon-wrapped chicken served with buttery rice is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or casual dinners. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a gourmet-worthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 half-slices of bacon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Your favorite seasoning blend (e.g., Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning)

For the Rice:

  • 1 package pre-cooked rice (any variety)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken:

  1. Season the Chicken:
    • Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your chosen seasoning blend, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
  2. Wrap the Bacon:
    • Take two half-slices of bacon and wrap them around each chicken breast.
    • Secure the bacon with toothpicks if needed to keep it in place during cooking.

Cooking the Chicken:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roast the Chicken:
    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
    • Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
    • Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
    • Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Preparing the Rice:

  1. Cook the Rice:
    • Follow the package instructions to prepare the pre-cooked rice.
  2. Add Flavor:
    • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Add the cooked rice to the saucepan.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    • Stir continuously until the rice is heated through and well-coated with butter.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve Immediately:
    • Spoon the buttery rice onto plates and top with the hot bacon-wrapped chicken.
    • Remove any toothpicks before serving.
  • Add Veggies:
    • Complement the meal with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
  • Sauce It Up:
    • Enhance the flavors by drizzling the chicken with a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce or a tangy barbecue sauce.
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