Are you looking for something simple to make that everyone in the family will love? Our recipe for bacon-wrapped chicken thighs celebrates flavor and texture, marrying the rich smokiness of crispy bacon with the juicy, flavorful goodness of bone-in chicken thighs. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply indulge in a decadent meal at home, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Why choose bone-in chicken thighs?
Our recipe calls for bone-in chicken thighs. Bone-in chicken thighs offer several advantages to recipes like this one over boneless, but they do require some adjustments in cooking methods and times. For example, bone-in chicken thighs tend to have more flavor because the bone imparts additional taste to the meat during cooking. It also acts as a natural insulator, which means the meat will remain more moist and juicy during cooking. Many people also prefer its plated appearance since the bone helps maintain the thigh’s structure and shape.
Cooking Tips for Bone-In Chicken Thighs:
- Longer Cooking Time: Bone-in chicken thighs generally require a longer cooking time than boneless thighs. This is because the bone can slow the heat transfer to the meat.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Since cooking times can vary based on the size of the thighs and your cooking method, it’s advisable to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust Cooking Methods: Bone-in chicken thighs are well-suited for methods like roasting, grilling, and braising, where longer cooking times are acceptable. These methods allow the bone to impart more flavor and help keep the meat moist.
How to make bacon-wrapped chicken thighs:
Ingredients:
- 8 TBS bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- 8 strips of TBS thick bacon
- 1 cup of your favorite barbeque sauce
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Use paper towels to pat the thighs dry. Season both sides of each thigh with a mixture of the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Wrap each thigh with one strip of bacon. The strip should begin and end on the underside of the thigh to keep it secure while roasting. Place each thigh in a shallow roasting pan.
- Put the thighs in the oven to roast and set the timer for 45 minutes.
- About 30 minutes in, baste the thighs with barbeque sauce. It’s best to turn them over and baste the backs first, then flip over and baste the tops. Return them to the oven to finish roasting.
- Use a meat thermometer to determine when the thighs are fully cooked. They are done when the internal temperature of the thickest parts of the chicken reaches 165°F. Baste them one last time and let them roast for about a minute before removing them from the oven.
- Remove the thighs and allow them to rest for five minutes before serving.
Choose The Butcher Shop for the highest quality ingredients.
One of the best parts of living in Oregon is having access to fresh and delicious meats and produce. That’s why The Butcher Shop always carries locally sourced meats and produce from farms right here in Southern Oregon. At TBS, you’ll find the perfect cut of meat for your meal, plus fresh-baked loaves of bread, fresh fruit and vegetables, local wine and beers, and even quality food specifically for your canine. Stop by today or call ahead to pre-order your ingredients.