Get ready for your new favorite appetizer—or even main course—with these Honey Whiskey Glazed Chicken Bacon Wrap Bombs. Juicy chicken bites wrapped in crispy bacon, glazed with a sticky honey whiskey sauce that’s the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory. Each bite explodes with flavor, featuring tender chicken, caramelized bacon, and a glaze that clings like golden syrup. I tried these for a game night once, and they disappeared faster than anything else on the table. They’re ideal for entertaining or whenever you want something indulgent and crowd-pleasing. The honey whiskey glaze gives them a rich depth that feels both comforting and elevated.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love these Honey Whiskey Glazed Chicken Bacon Wrap Bombs because they’re the perfect blend of sweet and savory with a little boozy flair. The whiskey glaze adds sophistication without overpowering the smoky bacon and juicy chicken. They’re easy to make, oven-baked (or air-fried) for crispiness, and guaranteed to impress guests. Serve them as appetizers, party bites, or even with a side of mashed potatoes or salad for a fun twist on dinner.
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Honey Whiskey Glazed Chicken Bacon Wrap Bombs: Sweet, Smoky, and Addictively Delicious
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 chicken bombs (serves 4)
- Diet: Halal
Description
These Honey Whiskey Glazed Chicken Bacon Wrap Bombs are juicy bites of tender chicken wrapped in crispy bacon, stuffed with creamy cheese filling, and coated in a sticky, sweet, smoky honey-whiskey glaze — the ultimate party appetizer or indulgent dinner treat.
Ingredients
- 8 slices bacon (regular or thick-cut)
- 450 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 8 bite-sized pieces
- 100 g (3.5 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons whiskey (bourbon works best)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with foil and place a wire rack on top for even cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pat chicken pieces dry and cut a small slit in each piece to create a pocket. Fill each with a spoonful of the cheese mixture.
- Wrap each stuffed chicken piece tightly with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed. Place seam-side down on the rack.
- Bake for 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until bacon starts to crisp and chicken is nearly cooked through.
- Meanwhile, prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, whiskey, soy sauce, butter, and vinegar. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.
- Brush the glaze generously over the chicken bombs and return to the oven for another 5–7 minutes, or until caramelized and sticky. For extra crispness, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely.
- Remove from the oven, rest for 5 minutes, then drizzle with extra glaze before serving.
Notes
- If you prefer no alcohol, substitute whiskey with apple juice or chicken broth.
- Use turkey bacon for a lighter, pork-free option (note: it may take longer to crisp).
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne or a drizzle of hot sauce to the glaze.
- These can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Main Course
- Method: Baking and Glazing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breast or thighs: Cut into bite-sized cubes for tender, juicy centers. Thighs stay moist and flavorful even after baking.
Bacon: Thin-cut strips wrap perfectly around the chicken, crisping beautifully in the oven.
Honey: Brings sweetness to balance the smoky bacon and whiskey’s warmth.
Whiskey: Adds depth and a slight caramel note to the glaze—bourbon works beautifully.
Brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness and helps create a glossy, sticky glaze.
Soy sauce: Balances the sweetness with savory umami flavor.
Garlic powder: Adds aromatic warmth and a touch of spice.
Smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smoky note that complements the bacon.
Salt and black pepper: Essential to bring all the flavors together.
Fresh parsley (optional): For a fresh, colorful garnish.
Toothpicks: To secure the bacon wraps while cooking.
Directions
- Preheat the oven. Heat to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the chicken. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes and season lightly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Wrap the bacon. Cut bacon slices in half and wrap each piece around a chicken cube. Secure with a toothpick and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Bake the chicken bombs. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crisp and the chicken is cooked through.
- Make the glaze. While the chicken bakes, combine honey, whiskey, soy sauce, and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.
- Glaze and finish. Brush the honey whiskey glaze over the cooked chicken bacon wraps and return them to the oven for 5 minutes to caramelize.
- Serve. Remove toothpicks and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot with extra glaze for dipping.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
Servings: 4–6 portions (about 16–20 bites)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes or in an air fryer for extra crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon soggy. You can also make the glaze ahead of time—it keeps well refrigerated for up to a week.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Honey Whiskey Bombs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the glaze for a kick.
Maple Bourbon Version: Replace honey with maple syrup and whiskey with bourbon for a sweeter, deeper flavor.
Garlic Butter Glaze: Substitute the honey whiskey glaze with a garlic butter sauce for a rich, savory twist.
BBQ Whiskey Bombs: Mix your favorite barbecue sauce with whiskey for a smokier, tangier version.
Air Fryer Method: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, brushing with glaze during the last few minutes.
Cheesy Center: Add a small cube of cheddar or mozzarella inside the chicken before wrapping in bacon for a melty surprise.
Pineapple Twist: Add a small pineapple chunk under the bacon for a sweet-tropical flavor combo.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great choice.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the bacon-wrapped chicken in advance and refrigerate; glaze and bake when ready.
What type of whiskey works best?
A smooth bourbon or honey whiskey gives the best flavor balance.
Can I cook these on the grill?
Absolutely—grill over medium heat, brushing with glaze during the last few minutes.
How do I keep the bacon from unwrapping?
Use toothpicks and place seam-side down while baking.
Can I make them alcohol-free?
Yes, substitute whiskey with apple juice or chicken broth for a similar sweetness.
How do I make the glaze thicker?
Simmer a few minutes longer or add a touch more brown sugar.
Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly since it cooks faster than pork bacon.
Are these suitable for meal prep?
Yes, they reheat beautifully and make great protein-packed snacks or lunches.
What can I serve them with?
Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.
Conclusion
These Honey Whiskey Glazed Chicken Bacon Wrap Bombs are the definition of bite-sized bliss—crispy, juicy, and glazed with a rich, sticky sauce that’s impossible to resist. The sweet and smoky honey whiskey glaze caramelizes beautifully, coating each piece with flavor that lingers long after the last bite. Whether you serve them as appetizers, party snacks, or a decadent main dish, they’re guaranteed to be a showstopper. Sweet, savory, and full of southern charm, this recipe turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal.
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