Chicken-Bacon Nuggets
Juicy chicken-bacon nuggets with a sweet and savory orange marmalade glaze, perfect for appetizer platters or casual gatherings, appealing to both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into 24 (1-inch) cubes.
- Wrap each chicken cube with a bacon slice and secure with a wooden pick.
- In a shallow dish or large Zip-top freezer bag, stir together orange marmalade, soy sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, and minced garlic.
- Add the bacon-wrapped chicken nuggets to the marinade, cover or seal, and chill for 2 hours, turning occasionally.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Coat a rack and broiler pan with vegetable cooking spray.
- Place the chicken nuggets on the rack in the broiler pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then turn the nuggets and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick. If you're out of sesame oil, you can substitute with olive oil or another neutral oil. To make this recipe even quicker, use pre-cooked bacon. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly to avoid overcooking. This dish pairs well with sides like rice or steamed vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chicken-bacon nuggets as a fun appetizer or party snack. They pair beautifully with dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables. They also make a great addition to a platter featuring other chicken recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken-bacon nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help keep them crispy rather than soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken-Bacon Nuggets contains roughly 194 calories, with 6g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1611mg per serving (70% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to fully thaw them before cutting into cubes. This will ensure even cooking and better absorption of the marinade. Plan ahead by thawing in the refrigerator or using the microwave's defrost setting.
What can I use instead of orange marmalade?
If you don't have orange marmalade, apricot preserves or a sweet chili sauce can serve as good substitutes. They will provide a similar sweetness and flavor profile that complements the bacon and chicken. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
How can I make these nuggets healthier?
To make the chicken-bacon nuggets healthier, consider using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for lower fat content. You can also bake them longer at a lower temperature to reduce grease. Additionally, serving them with a side of fresh vegetables can add nutrients to your meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).