This recipe combines the succulent flavors of tender chicken, sweet and sticky dates, crispy bacon, and a tangy balsamic reduction to create a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress. Perfect for a special date night or a dinner party with friends, this dish is both elegant and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 Medjool dates, pitted and chopped
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Make a slit lengthwise along the side of each chicken breast to create a pocket for stuffing.
- Stuff each chicken breast with chopped dates, then wrap each breast with two slices of bacon.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Place the stuffed and wrapped chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- While the chicken is baking, in a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a simmer and cook until the mixture has reduced by half and thickened slightly.
- Once the chicken is cooked, brush the balsamic reduction over the top of each chicken breast.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
- Enjoy your hot date with a chicken!
Interesting Facts
Dates are a great source of energy, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy and tasty addition to this dish.
Bacon adds a salty and smoky flavor to the dish, complementing the sweetness of the dates perfectly.
The balsamic reduction brings a tangy and acidic element to balance out the richness of the chicken and bacon.