Chicken tournedos wrapped in bacon make for an elegant yet easy weeknight dinner These bacon-wrapped chicken bundles look fancy but come together quickly, Cooking them in the oven results in juicy chicken and crispy bacon with minimal effort Follow this simple method to learn how to make these impressive chicken tournedos baked in the oven,
What are Chicken Tournedos?
Tournedos refers to a round, log-shaped cut of meat usually tied with string to help it hold its shape. Chicken tournedos are made by rolling chicken breasts or thighs into cylinders and wrapping them with bacon. This technique helps the lean chicken stay moist during cooking. The bacon also adds delicious flavor as its fat renders.
Ingredients Needed
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 8 chicken thighs
- 8-12 slices bacon (thin-cut recommended)
- Kitchen string or toothpicks
- Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme (optional)
- Olive oil or butter for searing
- Salt and pepper
How to Make Chicken Tournedos
Prep the Chicken
Trim any excess fat or tendons from the chicken breasts or thighs. Place each piece between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even 1/2-1 inch thickness. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper and chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Partially Cook the Bacon
Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange bacon slices in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes until lightly browned but still pliable. Allow to cool slightly. This renders some fat and helps bacon crisp up.
Wrap the Chicken
Working with one chicken piece at a time, tightly roll lengthwise into a cylinder. Wrap one slice of parcooked bacon around the chicken log, overlapping slightly. Secure bacon in place with string or toothpicks. Repeat with remaining chicken and bacon.
Sear the Chicken Tournedos
Heat 1-2 tbsp oil or butter in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add chicken tournedos seam side down. Sear 2-3 minutes until bacon is nicely browned. Flip and sear other sides 2-3 minutes. Remove toothpicks if using.
Finish Cooking in the Oven
Transfer skillet to preheated 375°F oven. Bake 10-12 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature. Bacon will become crispy in the oven. If desired, glaze with barbecue sauce or maple syrup during last 5 minutes of baking.
Let Rest and Serve
Remove pan from oven and tent chicken with foil. Let rest 5 minutes before removing string and serving. Spoon any pan juices over chicken. Enjoy with roasted veggies or a fresh salad!
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken Tournedos
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Dry chicken well before wrapping to help bacon adhere and promote even browning.
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Stretch bacon before wrapping if using regular sliced bacon to make it thinner.
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Use toothpicks just to hold shape initially. Remove before cooking to prevent burning.
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Cook to 165°F internal temperature for food safety.
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Choose thin-sliced bacon over thick-cut for even cooking.
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Partially bake bacon first for maximum crispiness in the oven later.
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Brush with glaze at the end for extra flavor and caramelized bacon.
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Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving for juiciest results.
Variations
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Use pork tenderloin or beef filet mignon instead of chicken.
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Coat inside of chicken with mustard, pesto or herb paste before wrapping.
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Top with melted cheese and broil the last 1-2 minutes.
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Serve with a pan sauce made from the drippings.
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Marinate chicken in Italian dressing before wrapping for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to tie the chicken tours?
Use kitchen string or unwaxed butcher’s twine. Wrap it around the center where the bacon overlaps and tie tightly. Remove string before serving.
Should I bake the bacon first?
Yes, partially pre-baking the bacon helps it render fat so it crisps up better later in oven. Bake at 375°F for 8-10 minutes before wrapping.
How long do I bake chicken tournedos?
Bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature. Bacon crisps up beautifully in the oven.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work great too. Pound them to an even thickness before wrapping in bacon.
What sides go well with chicken tournedos?
Roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, pasta, or a fresh salad pair nicely. You can also serve them with a pan sauce made from the drippings.
Chicken tournedos wrapped in bacon make an impressive yet easy dinner. By searing them first on the stovetop then finishing cooking in a hot oven, you’ll achieve crispy bacon and juicy chicken every time. Wrap up some chicken tournedos tonight for a satisfying meal that looks and tastes like you fussed!