| Prep Time ⇒ | 10 mins |
| Cook Time ⇒ | 45 mins |
| Protein ⇒ | 49g |
| Fat ⇒ | 10g |
| Carbs ⇒ | 17g |
BBQ Bacon Chicken Bake
This BBQ Bacon Chicken Bake is a delicious twist on traditional chicken recipes, perfect for those times when grilling isn’t an option. It’s simple to prepare and delivers a mouthwatering flavor that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- Cooking spray
- 8 slices of bacon
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce (such as Cattlemen’s® or Jack Daniel’s®)
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until the edges start to crisp, about 5 minutes. Drain the bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease.
Step 3: Take each chicken breast and wrap it with 2 slices of bacon in an X-pattern. Place the wrapped chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish, ensuring the ends of the bacon are underneath the chicken.
Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After this time, spread BBQ sauce over the chicken breasts and continue baking until the juices run clear and the chicken is no longer pink inside. An instant-read meat thermometer should register at least 160°F (70°C) in the thickest part of the breast, which should take an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
Recipe Facts :
This dish combines chicken and bacon, both of which offer distinct health benefits. Chicken is a lean protein source, important for muscle growth and repair. Bacon, while often considered indulgent, can provide a savory flavor that enhances meals when consumed in moderation.
For more information on the health benefits of chicken, you can check out Wikipedia.
If you’re interested in exploring more delicious recipes, visit Hearty Recipes.
Enjoy your BBQ Bacon Chicken Bake! It’s a flavorful, satisfying meal that is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Health Benefits of Ingredients :
The Protein Power of Chicken
Chicken is a lean source of protein that plays a crucial role in muscle building and repair. It’s packed with essential amino acids, which are vital for overall health and well-being. Consuming protein-rich foods like chicken can help maintain a healthy weight by promoting satiety, which can reduce overall calorie intake. Additionally, chicken is rich in B vitamins, especially niacin (vitamin B3), which supports energy production and cardiovascular health. For those interested in the nutritional breakdown of chicken, you can learn more about its benefits here.
The Heart-Healthy Benefits of Bacon
While bacon often gets a bad rap, it does have some health benefits when consumed in moderation. Made from pork belly, bacon provides essential fats that can support cellular function. Moreover, bacon is a source of certain vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins and zinc. The key is to choose high-quality, nitrate-free bacon, which can enhance the flavor of your dish without unnecessary additives. When prepared correctly, the fats in bacon can help increase HDL cholesterol, the “good” cholesterol that supports heart health. To dive deeper into the nutritional aspects of bacon, check out this link.
The Sweet and Tangy Benefits of Barbeque Sauce
Barbeque sauce adds a delightful flavor profile to your dish, and its ingredients can also offer health benefits. Many barbeque sauces contain tomato paste, which is rich in lycopene—a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Additionally, many sauces include apple cider vinegar, known for its potential to aid digestion and promote gut health. Opting for homemade or lower-sugar varieties can enhance the health benefits while still delivering that classic barbeque taste. For more information about the ingredients often found in barbeque sauce, visit this link.
Nutritional Yeast: The Secret Ingredient
If you’re looking to elevate your Barbeque Bacon Chicken Bake, consider incorporating nutritional yeast. This versatile ingredient is packed with vitamins, especially B12, which is crucial for vegetarians and vegans. Nutritional yeast is also a complete protein, providing all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent addition for those looking to enhance their protein intake without animal products. Its cheesy, nutty flavor can add depth to your dish while delivering various health benefits. To learn more about nutritional yeast and its benefits, check this link.
The Fiber Benefits of Vegetables
Incorporating vegetables into your Barbeque Bacon Chicken Bake not only enhances its flavor and texture but also boosts its nutritional value. Vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini are rich in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps maintain a healthy weight. Fiber slows down digestion, allowing for a gradual release of energy and helping to keep blood sugar levels stable. Plus, colorful vegetables are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, promoting overall health. For more on the health benefits of vegetables, visit this link.
Healthy Fats and Flavor from Olive Oil
Using olive oil in your Barbeque Bacon Chicken Bake provides a source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which are known to benefit heart health. Olive oil is rich in antioxidants, particularly oleocanthal, which has anti-inflammatory properties. This healthy fat can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. When selecting olive oil, extra virgin is the best choice, as it undergoes minimal processing and retains more nutrients. For further details about the benefits of olive oil, you can read more here.
The Importance of Seasoning: Spices and Herbs
Seasoning your dish with spices and herbs not only elevates the flavor but also offers numerous health benefits. Ingredients like garlic, paprika, and black pepper are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and potential to boost the immune system. Garlic, in particular, has been studied for its heart health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Using a variety of herbs and spices can also enhance the bioavailability of nutrients in your meal, making them more accessible to your body. To learn more about the benefits of common spices, visit this link.
Conclusion: Enjoying a Balanced Meal
Your Barbeque Bacon Chicken Bake is not just a delicious dish; it’s a celebration of nutritious ingredients that can contribute to a well-rounded diet. By understanding the health benefits of each component, you can enjoy your meal with the knowledge that you’re nourishing your body. For more delicious recipes that focus on hearty and wholesome ingredients, check out hearty-recipes.com. Embrace the joy of cooking and explore new flavors while prioritizing your health!