Bacon wrapped wild turkey bites are a fun, flavorful way to introduce kids to wild game. These savory, bite-sized treats combine juicy wild turkey breast with crispy bacon and a touch of sweet barbecue sauce, making them irresistible for both kids and adults. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or family gatherings, this recipe transforms lean wild turkey into a kid-approved favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound wild turkey breast, cut into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes
- 12 slices thin-cut bacon, halved crosswise (24 pieces)
- 1/3 cup barbecue sauce (mild or sweet, kid-friendly flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 24 toothpicks, soaked in water for 20 minutes
- Nonstick cooking spray (for the baking rack/pan)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. Lightly spray the rack with nonstick spray.
- Prepare the turkey: Pat the wild turkey breast cubes dry with paper towels. Place them in a medium bowl.
- Season: Drizzle olive oil over the turkey pieces. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Wrap with bacon: Take a half-slice of bacon and wrap it snugly around each turkey cube. Secure with a soaked toothpick through the center so the bacon stays in place.
- Arrange on rack: Place each bacon-wrapped turkey bite on the prepared rack, spacing them so the air can circulate.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the bacon is starting to crisp and the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Glaze with barbecue sauce: Remove the pan and brush each bite lightly with barbecue sauce. Return to the oven and bake for another 3-5 minutes, just until the sauce is bubbly and sticky.
- Rest and serve: Let the bites cool for 3-5 minutes. Remove toothpicks before serving to kids. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips
- Substitutions: If wild turkey isn’t available, substitute with chicken breast or domestic turkey breast. Adjust cooking time as needed, since wild turkey is leaner and may cook faster.
- Prevent dry turkey: Don’t overcook! Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches 165°F but not much higher.
- Choose the right bacon: Thin-cut bacon crisps up faster and wraps more easily around small pieces. Thick-cut bacon may stay chewy.
- Toothpick safety: Always soak toothpicks in water for at least 20 minutes before using to prevent burning in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these bites as a fun main dish with kid-friendly sides like mac and cheese, tater tots, or a fresh fruit salad.
- Offer them as a hearty appetizer or finger food at parties, paired with extra barbecue sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Build a platter: Add crunchy veggies (like carrot sticks and celery), cheese cubes, and crackers for a balanced snack board.
- For lunchboxes, pack cooled bites with sliced apples and pretzels for a protein-packed, fun meal.
Variations
- Sweet & Spicy: Mix a teaspoon of honey and a pinch of chili powder into your barbecue sauce before glazing for a sweet heat.
- Cheesy surprise: Place a small cube of mozzarella or cheddar inside each turkey piece before wrapping with bacon for a melty center.
- Herb lovers: Add a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs or fresh chopped parsley to the seasoning for extra flavor.
- Asian-inspired: Swap barbecue sauce for teriyaki glaze and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a new twist.
Storage and Reheating
Let leftover bacon wrapped wild turkey bites cool to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 7-10 minutes, until heated through and bacon is crisp again. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second bursts, but the bacon will not stay as crisp. These bites are not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the turkey and bacon can become rubbery after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I grill these instead of baking?
Yes! Preheat your grill to medium-high and cook the bacon-wrapped turkey bites over indirect heat, turning occasionally, for 15-18 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. Brush with barbecue sauce in the last few minutes of grilling. - How do I keep wild turkey from tasting dry or gamey?
Wild turkey is lean and can dry out if overcooked. Marinating isn’t necessary for this recipe, but don’t skip the olive oil and seasonings, which add moisture and flavor. Always cook just to 165°F and no more. If your turkey has a strong flavor, a sweeter barbecue sauce can help mellow it out for kids. - Can I make these ahead of time?
You can assemble the bites (season, wrap, and skewer) up to a day ahead and refrigerate them covered. Bake just before serving for the best texture. If you need to bake ahead, reheat in the oven to restore crispness. - What’s the best way to cut wild turkey breast for this recipe?
Trim away any sinew or tough spots, then cut into even 1 to 1.5-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. If using smaller or larger pieces, adjust baking time accordingly—smaller pieces will cook faster. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
The basic recipe uses naturally gluten-free ingredients, but check your barbecue sauce and bacon labels to confirm there are no hidden gluten-containing additives. Always verify if cooking for someone with celiac disease or a wheat allergy. - Can I use turkey thigh meat instead of breast?
Yes, turkey thigh meat will be juicier and slightly more flavorful. Cut into similar-sized cubes and cook until reaching 165°F. The texture will be just as kid-friendly.
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