Are you a fan of both chicken and bacon? Have you ever wondered if you can cook them together?
Well, the answer is yes!
Cooking raw chicken and bacon together can create a delicious and flavorful dish. However, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure that your chicken is cooked properly and your bacon is crispy.
In this article, we will explore the dos and don’ts of cooking raw chicken and bacon together, as well as share some mouth-watering recipes that you can try at home.
So, let’s get started!
Can You Cook Raw Chicken And Bacon Together?
As mentioned earlier, you can definitely cook raw chicken and bacon together. In fact, the combination of these two ingredients creates a wonderful flavor that is hard to resist.
However, it is important to note that not all types of bacon are suitable for this cooking method. Thick-cut bacon, for example, takes longer to cook and may not crisp up properly in the oven or on the stovetop. It is best to use regular-cut bacon for this purpose.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that your chicken is cooked to the proper temperature to avoid any risk of foodborne illness. The USDA recommends cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it is safe to eat.
The Benefits Of Cooking Chicken And Bacon Together
Cooking chicken and bacon together offers several benefits that make this combination a popular choice among home cooks and chefs alike.
Firstly, the addition of bacon to chicken adds a smoky and savory flavor that enhances the taste of the chicken. The natural fats and oils in the bacon also help to keep the chicken moist and juicy, preventing it from drying out during cooking.
Furthermore, chicken and bacon are both excellent sources of protein, making this combination a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake. Chicken is also low in fat, while bacon adds a small amount of healthy fats to the dish.
Another benefit of cooking chicken and bacon together is the versatility of this combination. The flavors of chicken and bacon work well in a variety of dishes, from salads and sandwiches to pasta dishes and casseroles.
Finally, cooking chicken and bacon together is a time-saving option for busy weeknights. By combining these two ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal in less time than it would take to cook them separately.
Safety Precautions To Keep In Mind
When cooking raw chicken and bacon together, it is crucial to follow proper safety precautions to prevent any potential foodborne illnesses. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:
1. Thaw chicken properly: It is important to thaw chicken properly before cooking it. Avoid leaving it out on the counter at room temperature, as this can promote the growth of harmful bacteria. Instead, defrost it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
2. Keep raw meat separate: To prevent cross-contamination, it is important to keep raw meat separate from other foods. Use separate plates, utensils, and cutting boards for raw meat and cooked meat. If you only have one board or knife, make sure to clean it thoroughly with hot, soapy water after using it for meat.
3. Cook chicken to the proper temperature: Make sure to cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it is safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature and avoid overcooking.
4. Avoid washing meat: Washing raw chicken before cooking it can actually spread bacteria around your kitchen, so it’s best to avoid this step.
By following these safety precautions, you can enjoy a delicious meal of cooked chicken and bacon without any health risks.
Tips For Cooking Chicken And Bacon Together
If you’re planning to cook chicken and bacon together, here are some tips to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly:
1. Use regular-cut bacon: As mentioned earlier, regular-cut bacon is the best option for cooking chicken and bacon together. It cooks faster and crisps up nicely, giving your dish a delicious flavor.
2. Cook the chicken to the proper temperature: Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The recommended temperature is 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it is safe to eat.
3. Consider using a wire rack: If you want a crispy bottom on your bacon-wrapped chicken, consider cooking it on a wire rack set on top of the pan. This allows the fat and juices to drip down, preventing them from directly contacting the moisture and resulting in a crispier texture.
4. Don’t overstuff the chicken: If you’re planning to stuff the chicken before wrapping it in bacon, make sure not to overfill it. This can cause the filling to ooze out, making it difficult to cook through into the center.
5. Broil for extra crispiness: If you’re using thick-cut bacon and it’s not crisping up properly, consider broiling the chicken for a few minutes at the end of cooking to render more fat and create more crisp bacon.
By following these tips, you can cook raw chicken and bacon together with confidence, creating a delicious and flavorful dish that everyone will love.
Delicious Recipes To Try At Home
If you’re looking for some delicious recipes to try at home that feature the combination of chicken and bacon, look no further! Here are two mouth-watering options:
1. Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken: This recipe only requires four ingredients and is the perfect weeknight meal. The chicken is sticky, crispy, sweet, and garlicky – what more could you want? Start by wrapping chicken breasts in bacon and seasoning with salt and pepper. Then, coat the chicken in a mixture of brown sugar and minced garlic. Bake in the oven until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. Serve with your favorite sides for a delicious and easy meal.
2. Skillet Chicken with Bacon and White Wine Sauce: This recipe is a bit more involved but is definitely worth the effort. It features small bite-sized pieces of salty bacon and sweet caramelized shallots, as well as a golden, crispy chicken skin. The chicken is pan-fried before taking a nice oven-bath in a white wine pan sauce. Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Both of these recipes are sure to please any crowd and are perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party with friends. Give them a try and let your taste buds thank you!
