Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
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Bacon wrapped chicken tenders are a popular dish combining juicy chicken with crispy bacon to create a mouthwatering meal satisfying any meat lover.
Juicy Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Looking for a delicious and easy recipe that is packed with flavors?
Bacon wrapped chicken tenders are a popular dish combining juicy chicken with crispy bacon to create a mouthwatering meal satisfying any meat lover.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a party, these chicken tenders will surely be a hit.
Let’s dive in!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Juiciness and Moisture: Wrapping chicken tenders in bacon helps retain moisture, ensuring the chicken stays juicy while cooking. This combination of flavors and juiciness makes it appealing to many.
- Ease of Preparation: They’re relatively easy to prepare, making them a popular choice for home cooks and a go-to option for gatherings or parties.
- Crowd Pleaser: The combination of bacon and chicken tends to be universally enjoyed, making it a crowd-pleasing dish for various occasions.
More Chicken Recipes
Makes 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
What You’ll Need
- Chicken breast tenderloins
- Bacon
- BBQ seasoning, divided
- Brown sugar
- Salt and pepper
For exact measurements, please see the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Chicken Tenders Wrapped in Bacon
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with foil.
Season each piece of chicken with half the BBQ seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Wrap a piece of bacon around each chicken tender.
Season with the remaining BBQ seasoning and brown sugar.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then cook under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, until the bacon is crispy.
Enjoy alone or with your favorite dipping sauce.
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tender Variations
Here are a few options to explore:
Stuffed Chicken Tenders
One popular variation is stuffed chicken tenders, where the tenders are filled with cheese, vegetables, or even jalapeños. The added fillings bring an extra burst of flavor and make each bite a delightful surprise.
Teriyaki Glazed Tenders
For those who enjoy a touch of sweetness in their savory dishes, adding a teriyaki glaze to the tenders is a fantastic option. The glaze adds depth and complexity to the flavors, creating a mouthwatering combination.
Spicy BBQ Chicken
If you prefer a kick of heat, consider trying spicy BBQ chicken. The smoky bacon, tender chicken, and spicy BBQ sauce create a tantalizing blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more.
These variations allow you to get creative and tailor the dish to suit your preferences.
Whether you’re a fan of cheesy goodness, sweet and tangy flavors, or bold spiciness, the possibilities are endless with bacon wrapped chicken tenders.
Tips and Tricks for Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
To ensure that your chicken tenders turn out perfectly, it’s helpful to keep a few tips and tricks in mind.
Seasoning the Chicken
Properly season the chicken with a blend of spices to enhance the flavors. Consider using a combination of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to add depth to the taste.
Wrapping the Bacon
When wrapping the bacon around the chicken, be sure to tuck in the ends tightly to prevent the bacon from unraveling during cooking. This will ensure a crispy texture and a secure bacon wrap.
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 chicken breast tenderloins
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 tablespoon BBQ seasoning divided
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with foil.
- Season each piece of chicken with half the BBQ seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Wrap a piece of bacon around each chicken tender.
- Season with the remaining BBQ seasoning and brown sugar.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then cook under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, until the bacon is crispy.
Nutrition
Ways to Serve Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Bacon-wrapped chicken tenders can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion and your personal preferences.
Appetizer Platter
For a delightful appetizer, arrange the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on a platter and insert toothpicks for easy grabbing.
This presentation is perfect for parties or casual get-togethers, allowing your guests to enjoy these tasty morsels without needing utensils.
Salad Toppings
If you’re looking to incorporate a protein-rich element into your salads, bacon-wrapped chicken tenders make an excellent topping.
Simply slice the tenders into bite-sized pieces and toss them onto your favorite salad. The combination of flavors and textures will add a delicious twist to your greens.
Dipping Sauces
To enhance the taste of your bacon-wrapped chicken tenders, serve them with an array of dipping sauces.
The savory tenders pair well with classic options like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.
These dips provide a burst of tanginess or sweetness, creating a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken and bacon.
Storage and Reheating Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Properly storing and reheating is essential to maintain their texture and taste.
Whether you have leftovers or want to prepare the tenders in advance, follow these guidelines for optimal results:
Refrigeration
To keep your cooked tenders fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
This will help preserve their flavor and texture for up to 3-4 days.
Ensure that the container is securely sealed to prevent any air exposure that could dry out the tenders.
Freezing
If you want to extend the shelf life of your bacon-wrapped chicken tenders, freezing is a great option.
Individually wrap each tender in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container before freezing.
This will prevent them from sticking together and allow for easy portioning.
Frozen tenders can be stored for up to 3 months without a significant impact on their quality.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy your leftover or frozen chicken tenders, reheating them correctly will help maintain their deliciousness.
Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the bacon soggy and the chicken rubbery.
Instead, opt for the oven or air fryer for best results.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the bacon becomes crispy again.
If using an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C) and cook the tenders for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy.
By following these storage and reheating methods, you can enjoy chicken tenders that maintain their irresistible texture and flavors, even when enjoyed as leftovers.
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders Conclusion
In conclusion, bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are a delicious and versatile dish that is loved by many.
The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and flavorful spices makes them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a main dish, or adding them to salads, chicken tenders are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
So, next time you’re craving a mouthwatering meal, give bacon-wrapped chicken tenders a try.
You’ll discover a delicious and crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends.
With its combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and irresistible flavors, this recipe is an absolute must-try!
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