If you're searching for a show-stopping dish that’s easy to prepare, these Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders are a must-try! Crispy, smoky bacon wrapped around tender, juicy chicken – it’s the ultimate combination of flavor and texture.
Why You'll Love This Simple Chicken Recipe
- Fast and Simple. Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep time.
- Versatile. Perfect for game day, weeknight dinners, or holiday gatherings.
- Flavor-Packed. Smoky bacon paired with tender chicken and optional seasoning makes each bite irresistible.
Whether served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a hearty main course, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
What Do Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders Taste Like?
These tenders combine the smoky, savory flavor of bacon with the juicy, tender texture of chicken. They are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them an excellent choice for any occasion.
Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for a customizable flavor experience.
Can You Cook Raw Chicken And Raw Bacon Together?
Yes, you can cook raw chicken and raw bacon together, but there are some key considerations to ensure safety and delicious results.
Both chicken and bacon must be cooked to their safe internal temperatures.
Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it's fully cooked and safe to eat. Bacon typically becomes crispy at lower temperatures, but when paired with chicken, it will cook to a safe temperature along with the chicken.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Chicken Tenders- These are lean and tender cuts of chicken, making them ideal for wrapping. Their mild flavor absorbs the seasoning and bacon’s smoky taste, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite.
- Bacon- Thin-cut bacon crisps up beautifully in the oven while wrapping the chicken, keeping it moist and infusing it with its signature smoky, savory flavor. The combination of crispy bacon and tender chicken creates a perfect texture contrast.
- Brown Sugar (Optional)- Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the smoky and savory notes of the bacon. As it caramelizes during baking, it creates a glossy, slightly sticky coating that enhances the overall flavor.
- Paprika or Chili Powder (Optional)- These spices provide an optional layer of smoky or spicy flavor. Paprika brings warmth and depth, while chili powder adds a mild kick for those who enjoy a touch of heat.
- Salt and Black Pepper- These essential seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and bacon, ensuring the dish is perfectly balanced and savory.
How To Make Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
- Prepare the Ingredients. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps the bacon stick better and ensures even cooking.
- Season the Chicken. Season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, and optional paprika or chili powder for extra flavor.
- Wrap with Bacon. Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon, slightly overlapping the edges. If desired, sprinkle brown sugar over the bacon for a sweet glaze.
- Bake to Perfection. Place the wrapped tenders seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Optional Broil. For extra crispiness, broil the tenders for 1–2 minutes at the end of cooking.
Tips And Tricks
Follow these practical tips to ensure your bacon-wrapped chicken tenders turn out crispy, juicy, and full of flavor every time:
- Choose Thin Bacon. It crisps up faster and more evenly than thick-cut bacon.
- Use a Wire Rack. Placing the tenders on a rack ensures even cooking and prevents sogginess.
- Don’t Overcrowd. Leave space between each tender on the baking sheet for proper air circulation.
Variations
Bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize flavors to suit any occasion. Here are some creative variations to elevate this dish:
- Spicy Honey Glaze- Drizzle the tenders with a mix of honey and hot sauce before baking for a sweet and spicy twist.
- Cheesy Delight- Stuff the tenders with a slice of mozzarella or cream cheese before wrapping in bacon.
- Herb Infusion- Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme on the tenders before wrapping for an herby flavor boost.
What To Eat With Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are a versatile and flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious options to complement their smoky, savory flavor:
- Dipping Sauces- Ranch, honey mustard, barbecue, or spicy aioli.
- Side Dishes- Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
- Drinks- Serve with lemonade, iced tea, or your favorite beer for a complete meal.
How Long Do They Last?
Cooked bacon wrapped chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
Reheat them in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
Can You Freeze Them?
These tenders freeze beautifully! Store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheat the chicken tenders directly from frozen for a quick meal or snack.
More Flavor Packed Recipes
- Instant Pot Butter Chicken
- Mississippi Pot Roast
- Mexican Ground Beef Casserole
- Homemade Gyro Meat
- Chicken Stroganoff
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Ingredients
- 8 Chicken Tenders
- 8 slices Bacon
- 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Chili Powder
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps the bacon stick better and ensures even cooking.
- Season the Chicken. Season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, and optional paprika or chili powder for extra flavor.
- Wrap with Bacon. Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon, slightly overlapping the edges. If desired, sprinkle brown sugar over the bacon for a sweet glaze.
- Bake to Perfection. Place the wrapped tenders seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Optional Broil. For extra crispiness, broil the tenders for 1–2 minutes at the end of cooking.
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Nutrition
Don't forget to check out my other Keto cookbooks.
Keto Instant Pot, Keto Fat Bombs, Sweets, & Treats, and Easy keto in 30 minutes.
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