Enjoy these delicious Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders, a perfect blend of juicy chicken and crispy bacon. Ideal for a family dinner, party appetizer, or a savory snack, this recipe is both easy to make and irresistibly tasty. Customize with your favorite seasonings for a personal touch.
Optional seasonings: garlic powderpaprika, or a pinch of brown sugar for sweetness
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a consistent cooking environment for the tenders.
Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer. If you're using brown sugar, sprinkle it lightly for a caramelized finish.
Wrap the Chicken: Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around a chicken tender. Make sure the bacon covers most of the chicken. If needed, secure the bacon with a toothpick.
Arrange for Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top if available. Arrange the bacon-wrapped tenders on the rack. This setup allows the bacon to crisp up nicely.
Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through, and the bacon should be crispy. For extra crispiness, you can broil the tenders for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
Serving Suggestion: Serve your bacon-wrapped chicken tenders with sides like roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or dipping sauces such as honey mustard or BBQ sauce.
Tips:
For a healthier version, consider using turkey bacon.
If you're using thicker bacon, partially cook it before wrapping the chicken to ensure even cooking.
Experiment with different seasonings to find your favorite flavor combination.
Notes
For a healthier option, use turkey bacon.
If you prefer a sweeter taste, sprinkle a mix of brown sugar and chili powder on the bacon before wrapping.
To ensure even cooking, avoid using thick-cut bacon or partially cook it before wrapping.
Let the tenders rest for a few minutes after baking for optimal juiciness.