Oh, Valentine’s Day! A day that’s all about love, chocolates, and romantic dinners. Now, I don’t know about you, but for me, nothing says romance quite like bacon-wrapped anything, and these Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Skewers have a special place in my heart (and stomach). I vividly remember the first time I made these—they were an instant hit at a Valentine’s gathering with friends. Someone even claimed it was the best thing they’ve eaten all year!
These skewers are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re fun to make too! Wrapping chicken in crispy bacon and grilling them up gives you that tantalizing combination of savory and smokey flavors. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing (or maybe not, depending on how greedy you get when you take your first bite!). So, let’s dive in, shall we?
What’s in Valentine’s Day Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Skewers?
Chicken Breast: The star of this dish! I usually prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook up nice and quickly while still being flavorful.
Bacon: Who doesn’t love bacon? It adds that crispy goodness! Go for thick-cut bacon for extra deliciousness. Some of my favorites are from local farms or names like Applegate Organics.
Bell Peppers: I love the pop of color! Red, yellow, or orange peppers bring a sweet crunch to the skewers, making them not just tasty, but beautiful too!
Onions: Adding onions gives a nice bite and sweetness to the mix. I like using red onions for a little color, but you can use whatever you have on hand.
Olive Oil: A drizzle before grilling helps the bacon crisp up and keeps the chicken moist.
Seasonings: Simple salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs really bring out the flavors. I often opt for a mix of Italian seasoning or garlic powder.
Is Valentine’s Day Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Skewers Good for You?
Oh, let’s be real—these skewers are indulgent, but they can still be part of a balanced meal!
Chicken Breast: A lean protein source that helps build muscles and keeps you feeling full. It’s low in calories, so it’s perfect if you’re watching your intake but still want something hearty.
Bacon: Here’s the catch! While bacon brings flavor and joy, it’s also high in saturated fats and sodium. Moderation is key here. You could even consider turkey bacon if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Bell Peppers and Onions: Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, these veggies are fantastic for health and add a refreshing crunch to the dish.
All in all, while these skewers aren’t “health food,” they can definitely be a part of a balanced diet when enjoyed occasionally, especially on a day meant for love!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 slices thick-cut bacon
– 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), cut into squares
– 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Italian seasoning or garlic powder
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Valentine’s Day Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Skewers?
1. **Prep the Skewers:** If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
2. **Cut the ingredients:** Prepare your chicken, bell peppers, and onions by cutting them into appropriately sized pieces for skewering. Aim for uniform sizes for even cooking.
3. **Wrap the Chicken:** Take a piece of chicken, wrap it with a slice of bacon, and secure it on a skewer. Alternate with pieces of bell pepper and onion to create colorful layers.
4. **Season It Up:** Drizzle the skewers with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you love.
5. **Grill Away:** Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Plate them up, and they’re ready to be devoured!
Fun Tips and Serving Suggestions
Give these skewers a little flair! You can serve them with a side of creamy ranch or spicy aioli for dipping. Want to switch up the veggies? Feel free to toss in zucchini or cherry tomatoes as well!
You can also make a big batch and serve them at a Valentine’s day party. Just put a few on a platter, and I guarantee they’ll disappear fast! Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, think about a glaze! A honey-balsamic drizzle can take these to the next level—sweet, tangy, and utterly delightful.
You know, I hope you’ll take a chance on these Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Skewers. Whether you’re sharing them with a special someone or just treating yourself (hey, you deserve it!), I can’t wait for you to enjoy this delicious, finger-licking goodness. Remember to snap a photo and share your experience; I’d love to hear how they turn out! Happy cooking!