| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 400 | 20g | 7g | 20g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 16g | 0g | 28g | 1.2g |
Why I Love Canadian Bacon-Wrapped Maple-Glazed Chicken Skewers
There’s something uniquely comforting about the smoky, sweet, and savory combination of bacon, maple syrup, and tender chicken, which is why I absolutely adore this recipe for Bacon-Wrapped Maple-Glazed Chicken Skewers. It’s a dish that’s hearty yet sophisticated enough to serve at a special gathering, and it holds a beautiful balance of flavors that marry well together. This creation reminds me a bit of Chicken Satay with its skewered presentation, but brings a distinct North American flair through its use of maple syrup and bacon.
A Canadian Inspiration
Growing up in California, I was always surrounded by a plethora of fresh ingredients and diverse culinary influences. However, my connection to this recipe is inspired by my travels to Canada. It’s no surprise that maple syrup, a classic Canadian ingredient, plays a star role here. I first encountered a similar dish during my visit to a quaint eatery in Toronto. The chef, David Rocco, who is known for his ability to blend simple ingredients into extraordinary meals, immensely influenced my take on these skewers. This recipe is a nod to his ability to elevate comfort food to a gourmet level.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
The Bacon-Wrapped Maple-Glazed Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a range of side dishes. For a complete meal, I like to serve them with a vibrant quinoa salad or a creamy coleslaw. The skewers also make a great appetizer for a summer BBQ, fitting seamlessly alongside grilled vegetables or even as an accompaniment to a platter of cheese and olives. They’re reminiscent of Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, with the maple syrup offering a unique sweetness that sets them apart.
Making these skewers is relatively straightforward, yet the final product looks and tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. The chicken tenders remain juicy thanks to the bacon wrap, while the maple-soy glaze provides a burst of sweet and savory notes with each bite. The addition of apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard adds just the right amount of tang and heat, ensuring every mouthful is as exciting as the last.
Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is bound to impress. It’s a fusion of flavors that appeals universally, reflecting both my personal culinary journey and the diverse influences that make Canadian cuisine so special.
What You’ll Need
- 12 chicken tenders (about 1.5 pounds)
- 12 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
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Method
Step One
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Step Two
In a medium bowl, mix together the maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Three
Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon. Secure by inserting a skewer through the entire length of the wrapped chicken piece. Repeat for all remaining chicken tenders.
Step Four
Using a brush, coat each bacon-wrapped chicken skewer generously with the maple glaze mixture.
Step Five
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, rotating occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step Six
Brush the skewers with any remaining glaze during the last few minutes of grilling. Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Bacon-Wrapped Maple-Glazed Chicken Skewers!
