Juicy Bacon-Wrapped Chicken

Step 1

Arrange a rack in the top third of the oven and heat the oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.

Step 2

Place 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dry mustard, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper in a small bowl and stir to combine. Pat 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then sprinkle all over with the spice mixture.

Step 3

Wrap each chicken breast with 3 slices bacon: Start at one end and wrap tightly around the chicken, leaving no gaps but not overlapping the bacon except when starting to wrap with the next slice. Trim off any excess bacon. Place the chicken breasts seam-side down on the baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.

Step 4

Bake until the bacon is browned and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F, 32 to 35 minutes. If desired, switch the oven to broil, and broil for 1 to 2 minutes for crispier bacon. Serve immediately with more black pepper.