Grilled Chicken with Rosemary and Crispy Bacon
Grilled Chicken with Rosemary and Bacon is an easy yet elegant main course that combines juicy grilled chicken breasts with aromatic fresh rosemary and smoky bacon. The chicken is marinated to maximize tenderness and flavor before being wrapped in bacon and grilled until perfectly cooked. The rosemary infuses every bite with fragrant herbal notes while the bacon creates a crispy, savory exterior. This recipe requires minimal preparation but produces impressive results suitable for both casual meals and special occasions. It's a protein-rich dish that's easy to customize with your favorite seasonings and side dishes.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices bacon
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels.
- Combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, lemon juice, paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator.
- Wrap each chicken breast with two slices of bacon.
- Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Lightly oil the grill grates.
- Grill chicken for approximately 8–10 minutes per side.
- Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary and lemon wedges.
Notes
- Fresh rosemary provides the best flavor.
- Thick-cut bacon creates a crispier exterior.
- Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken juicy.
- Marinating overnight enhances flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing.
- Applewood-smoked bacon adds extra richness.
- Lemon zest can brighten the overall flavor.