Sweet, smoky, and irresistibly crisp, this Honey Chipotle Turkey Bacon is proof that a simple twist can completely transform a classic breakfast side. Made with just 3 ingredients, you can enjoy crispy bacon again, just with slightly less guilt than its pork cousin.
Turkey bacon gets a bad rap. Mostly because, well… it's not bacon! But I'm a fan. Since it's leaner than traditional pork bacon, I can enjoy an extra slice or two without the added guilt.
While turkey bacon can be slightly more chewy than its pork counterpart, the caramelized honey does double duty here. It adds a delicious sweet-and-savory flavor while also helping the bacon crisp up beautifully.
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Key ingredients
Just 3 ingredients! Grab your favorite turkey bacon (or pork bacon), honey, and chipotle or chili powder. If you'd like an additional layer of smoky flavor, feel free to add a touch of cumin or smoked paprika.
Full ingredient list can be found in the recipe card below.
Step-by-step instructions
I prefer the oven-baked cooking method for bacon over pan-fried (less mess and way easier for a crowd), but you can just as easily cook turkey bacon in a skillet.
Step 1. Place turkey bacon in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Step 2. Brush with melted honey.
Step 3. Sprinkle chipotle powder on top of the honey bacon.
Step 4. Cook at 400°F for 14-18 minutes until crispy. Keep an eye on it so it doesn't burn.
*These are abbreviated instructions. The full list of directions is in the recipe card below.
👩🍳Expert tips
- Cured vs. uncured bacon may affect your final dish. Both work, but I noticed that the cured turkey bacon crisped up better than the uncured bacon. That being said, choose whichever one you prefer.
- Wire rack versus direct pan method. I normally prefer placing a wire rack on top of a baking sheet when cooking traditional pork bacon (it avoids soggy bacon and allows me to collect all that bacon grease). Since turkey bacon is much leaner, it doesn't render much fat, so you can cook it directly in the pan. Again, personal preference.
- Don't overload the honey. A light, even coating is all you need. Too much honey can burn before the bacon fully crisps, especially at higher oven temperatures.
- Make turkey bacon in a skillet. You can also make this on the stovetop. Cook turkey bacon in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until nearly crisp. Brush with honey, sprinkle with chipotle seasoning, and cook for another 30-60 seconds per side until caramelized. Keep a close eye on it; the honey can go from caramelized to burnt quickly.
Serving suggestions
What doesn't bacon go with?
- Eggs- Serve them with all things eggs. Fried, scrambled, poached, or jammy.
- Make a sandwich- Layer it inside a classic breakfast sandwich, or layer it in a BLT.
- Pancakes, waffles, or French toast- Bacon is the perfect side dish to these sweet or savory classics.
- Other breakfast sides- Serve bacon with crispy breakfast potatoes, hash, or simple roasted tomatoes.
- Salads- Spruce up a fresh summer salad, or add it to prepared egg salad.
Storage
To store the bacon, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Frequently asked questions
Honey can burn if applied too heavily or cooked at very high temperatures. Use a light coating and keep an eye on the bacon during the final minutes of cooking.
Perfect pairings
Delicious with everything!
Made this recipe? I'd love to hear about it. Please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and comment below the recipe. Snapped a photo? Tag @brunchandbatter on Instagram so I can see your creation!
📖Recipe
Honey Chipotle Turkey Bacon
Equipment
- large baking sheets
Ingredients
- 12 ounces turkey bacon
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon chipotle powder or chili powder
- ground cumin or smoked paprika, optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Optional: Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet if preferred.
- Lay the turkey bacon strips in a single layer on the baking sheet. Avoid overlapping to ensure even cooking and crisping.12 ounces turkey bacon
- Slightly warm the honey just until loosened and pourable (about 10-15 seconds in the microwave). This makes it easier to spread evenly. Using a pastry brush or spoon, lightly coat the turkey bacon with the warm honey, then sprinkle evenly with chipotle powder and optional spices if using.¼ cup honey, 1 tablespoon chipotle powder or chili powder, ground cumin or smoked paprika, optional
- Bake for 14-18 minutes, checking around the 14-minute mark to prevent burning. Without a wire rack: Flip the bacon halfway through cooking for even crisping. With a wire rack: No flipping needed.Cooking time will vary depending on thickness and brand. The bacon is done when caramelized and crisp around the edges. Remove from the oven and let rest for 1-2 minutes before serving. The bacon will continue to crisp slightly as it cools.
Notes
- Cured vs. uncured bacon may affect your final dish. Both work, but I noticed that the cured turkey bacon crisped up better than the uncured bacon. That being said, choose whichever one you prefer.
- Don't overload the honey. A light, even coating is all you need. Too much honey can burn before the bacon fully crisps, especially at higher oven temperatures.
Nutrition*
*Nutrition information is an estimate and provided as a courtesy. Actual values may vary based on ingredients, measurements, and substitutions.
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