These AIP Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites are a savory, crowd-pleasing appetizer and snack. They’re simple to make and combine salty bacon with a touch of maple or honey and sea salt for a sweet-and-savory bite of juicy chicken. I like to finish them with crunchy pomegranate seeds and an extra drizzle of honey for contrast. Naturally paleo and AIP-friendly, these bites are perfect for year-round gatherings, game day, or as a protein-rich snack.
These chicken bites are always a hit. For variety, serve them with a selection of dipping sauces—garlic aioli or a tangy barbecue-style sauce pair nicely. They’re easy to prepare ahead for parties and transport well, making them a versatile option when hosting friends and family.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Simple: With only six core ingredients, these bacon-wrapped chicken bites come together quickly.
- Family-friendly: The sweet-and-savory flavor appeals to kids and adults, and wrapping the bites is a fun task for helpers in the kitchen.
- Diet-friendly: Naturally paleo, gluten-free, autoimmune protocol (AIP) friendly, soy-free, low carb, keto-friendly, and grain-free.
- Versatile: Serve with optional dipping sauces like a Whole30-style BBQ or garlic aioli for extra flavor.
- Perfect for many occasions: Great for appetizers, game day, or as a high-protein snack.
Ingredients
- Bacon — choose uncured, minimally processed bacon when possible to avoid added sugars.
- Chicken breasts — cut into roughly 1-inch cubes so they’re easy to wrap.
- Maple syrup or honey — maple gives a richer flavor, but honey works too.
- Cinnamon — adds warm depth and complements the sweet glaze.
- Pomegranate seeds — for a bright, crunchy finish.
- Sea salt — enhances the sweet-and-savory balance.
See the recipe card below for exact measurements and optional garnish ideas.
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap the maple or honey for another natural sweetener you prefer, such as agave.
- Use prosciutto instead of bacon for a lighter, saltier alternative.
- Substitute chicken thighs or tenders if you prefer dark meat or want a juicier bite.
- Scale up the size and cooking time to turn these into a main dish and serve with roasted vegetables or a salad.
If you try other substitutions, note that cooking times and textures may change—feel free to share results in the comments.
Step by Step Instructions
Photo 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Cut each bacon slice in half. In a bowl, toss the cubed chicken with cinnamon, maple syrup or honey, and a pinch of sea salt. Wrap a half-slice of bacon around each chicken cube and secure with a toothpick. Arrange the bites on a baking sheet and bake 15 minutes, then flip or rotate and bake another 15 minutes, or until bacon is cooked through and chicken is done. Top with fresh pomegranate seeds and, if desired, an extra drizzle of maple or honey and a sprinkle of parsley.
Expert Tips
- Cut chicken first: Cutting chicken into uniform pieces helps ensure even cooking and makes wrapping easier.
- For extra-crispy bacon: Partially cook the bacon before wrapping to achieve a crispier finish without overcooking the chicken.
- Thick-cut bacon: If using thick-cut, expect slightly longer cook times so the bacon reaches your preferred doneness.
Recipe FAQs
Yes — you can assemble them and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. Bring glass containers to room temperature before transferring to the oven to avoid thermal shock.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
They’re best fresh from the oven, but if reheating is necessary, warm in a 350°F oven for 5–10 minutes or use an air fryer basket to help preserve texture.
Chicken breast cut into bite-size pieces works well. Use tenders to save time, or thighs if you prefer dark meat.
Other Gluten Free Appetizer Recipes You Will Love:
-
Simple Beetroot Dip Recipe
-
Everything Bagel Seasoned Chicken Wings
-
AIP Beet Hummus With Cauliflower
-
Dairy Free Buffalo Chicken Dip
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AIP Bacon Maple Chicken Bites
61kcal
Ingredients
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced into 16 small 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 pinch sea salt
Optional: to garnish
- Honey to drizzle
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut bacon slices in half. In a bowl, combine cubed chicken with cinnamon, maple syrup or honey, and a pinch of sea salt. Wrap each chicken cube with a half bacon slice and secure with a toothpick. Arrange on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 minutes, flip or rotate, then bake another 15 minutes or until bacon is cooked and chicken reaches a safe internal temperature. Remove from oven, top with pomegranate seeds, and drizzle with additional maple or honey and parsley if desired.
Notes
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Calories: 61kcal
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