Bacon wrapped chicken tenders are a delightful fusion of savory flavors and textures that will elevate any meal. This easy-to-follow recipe combines the juicy tenderness of chicken with the crispy goodness of bacon, making it a favorite among both adults and children alike. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these tenders will steal the show. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip up this dish quickly while impressing your guests with its rich taste. In just under an hour, you can enjoy succulent chicken enveloped in perfectly cooked bacon — what’s not to love? Let’s dive into why you’ll adore this mouthwatering recipe.
Why You’ll Love This BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Chicken Breasts: Use about 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips for tender pieces that cook evenly.
- Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for a crispy exterior that adds great flavor; about 8 slices should suffice.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings enhance the taste of the chicken; feel free to adjust amounts to your preference.
- Paprika: This spice adds a hint of smokiness; use sweet paprika or smoked paprika depending on your taste.
- Garlic Powder: Provides an aromatic depth that complements both the bacon and chicken perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Cut boneless chicken breasts into strips about one inch wide. Season them generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder on all sides.
Step 3: Wrap with Bacon
Take one piece of seasoned chicken and wrap it tightly with a slice of bacon. Ensure each piece is fully covered; secure it with a toothpick if necessary.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Leave some space between each piece to allow even cooking.
Step 5: Bake Until Crispy
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (75°C).
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Transfer the cooked tenders onto plates or a serving platter. Drizzle with your favorite dipping sauce if desired and enjoy warm!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Bacon Placement: Place seam side down on the baking sheet so that the bacon stays wrapped during cooking
- Leftovers Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days
How to Serve BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS
This BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS in advance by wrapping the chicken tenders in bacon and marinating them for up to 24 hours. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to cook, ensuring they maintain freshness.
- Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing them, where they will keep well for about three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring they retain their crispiness.
Suggestions for BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS:
Use the Right Cut of Chicken
Selecting the proper cut of chicken is crucial for perfect bacon wrapped chicken tenders. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins. These cuts ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and remains juicy. Avoid using bone-in cuts, as they can lead to uneven cooking and dryness. Additionally, make sure to trim any excess fat from the chicken to prevent flare-ups while grilling or baking. The uniformity of the chicken pieces will help the bacon wrap adhere better and achieve a crispy texture.
Don’t Overwrap with Bacon
While it may be tempting to wrap your chicken tenders with multiple layers of bacon, this is a mistake. Overwrapping can lead to greasy, undercooked chicken as the bacon takes longer to crisp up than the chicken does to cook through. Aim for a single layer of bacon around each tender, securing it with toothpicks if necessary. This method allows the bacon to render its fat properly while ensuring that your chicken cooks thoroughly and remains flavorful.
Season Your Chicken Properly
Many people forget to season their chicken before wrapping it with bacon, which can result in bland flavors. To enhance the taste of your bacon wrapped chicken tenders, season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or your favorite spices before wrapping in bacon. This step elevates the overall dish and complements the smoky flavor of the bacon beautifully. Remember to use a light hand with salt since the bacon itself is already salty.
Don’t Skip Preheating Your Oven or Grill
Failing to preheat your oven or grill is a common mistake when making bacon wrapped chicken tenders. Preheating ensures that your tenders start cooking immediately when placed inside, leading to better caramelization and crispiness on the outside while sealing in juices on the inside. A preheated environment will also help achieve that deliciously crispy texture we all love in bacon without overcooking the chicken itself.
FAQs:
How long do I cook BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS?
Cooking time for bacon wrapped chicken tenders varies depending on your cooking method. If you choose to bake them in an oven at 400°F (200°C), expect them to take about 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If grilling, cook them over medium heat for approximately 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked. Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer for best results.
Can I make BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS ahead of time! You can wrap them in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day before cooking. For longer storage, consider freezing them before cooking; just ensure they are tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and placed in a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking or grilling.
What dipping sauces go well with BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS?
BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS pair wonderfully with various dipping sauces! Classic choices include ranch dressing and honey mustard for a sweet-and-savory contrast. Barbecue sauce also complements their smoky flavor beautifully. For a spicy kick, try sriracha mayo or buffalo sauce as an alternative option. These dip options enhance your experience and bring additional flavors that elevate this delicious appetizer.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Using turkey bacon instead of regular pork bacon is possible but may require some adjustments when making CHICKEN TENDERS. Turkey bacon typically has less fat content than traditional bacon; thus, it might not render enough fat during cooking, which could lead to drier tenders. Consider adding olive oil or another fat source when using turkey bacon to maintain moisture levels in your dish while achieving a desirable crispiness.
Conclusion for BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS:
In conclusion, preparing delectable CHICKEN TENDERS requires attention to detail from ingredient selection to cooking methods. Remember to choose boneless cuts of chicken and avoid overwrapping with excessive layers of bacon to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor. Proper seasoning enhances taste significantly while preheating your cooking surface is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior without sacrificing juiciness inside. With these tips in mind and suitable dipping sauces at hand, you’re set for a delightful culinary experience! Enjoy every savory bite!
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders are an irresistible combination of juicy chicken and crispy bacon that will delight your taste buds. Perfect for any occasion, these tenders are quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that is not only satisfying but also visually appealing. Ideal as an appetizer for gatherings or a hearty main course for family dinners, these tenders are sure to become a favorite at your table. Simply season the chicken, wrap it in bacon, bake until crispy, and serve with your favorite dipping sauces for a culinary experience that’s easy to achieve yet impressive to serve.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Cut the chicken into strips about one inch wide and season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Wrap each chicken strip tightly with a slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped tenders on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bacon wrapped chicken tenders (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Leave a Comment