BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS

Bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are a delightful combination of juicy chicken and crispy bacon, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family dinner, or looking for a tasty snack, these tenders will impress everyone. The unique blend of spices and the sweet brown sugar topping make this dish stand out, ensuring it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of spices and bacon creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an appetizer, main dish, or even in wraps—perfect for any meal.
• Crispy Texture: The bacon adds a satisfying crunch while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
• Kid-Friendly: Children will enjoy the fun finger food aspect of these tenders.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Meat thermometer (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking the chicken tenders, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining spices and coating the chicken tenders effectively.

Ingredients

Bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are juicy tenders, flavorful, and crispy. The bacon keeps the chicken from drying out, and the brown sugar coating creates the yummy glaze.

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb chicken tenders (approx 10 chicken tenders)
• 10 strips bacon
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ to 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 tbsp chili powder

How to Make BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Mix all spices except chili powder with salt in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken tenders so that they are coated on all sides.

Step 2: Wrap with Bacon

Wrap each seasoned chicken tender in thin slices of bacon. Make sure to fold down the edges securely to keep everything in place.

Step 3: Add the Sweet Coating

Combine light brown sugar with chili powder in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture generously over each wrapped chicken tender. Press gently with your fingers to help it adhere well.

Step 4: Bake or Smoke

Place the wrapped tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cook in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can smoke them with the lid closed for approximately 30 minutes until cooked through.

Enjoy your delicious BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS as a perfect addition to your next gathering!

How to Serve BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS

BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. These delicious tenders can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

Classic Platter

• Arrange the chicken tenders on a large platter. Serve with toothpicks for easy handling and enjoy as a finger food treat.

Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing. The combination of flavors will elevate the taste experience.

Salad Topper

• Slice the cooked chicken tenders and add them over mixed greens. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette for a hearty salad that’s both tasty and filling.

Wrap It Up

• Use the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders as filling for wraps or sandwiches. Add fresh vegetables and sauces to create a satisfying meal.

Appetizer Skewers

• Cut the tenders into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto skewers with bell peppers and onions for an appealing appetizer that’s easy to serve.

How to Perfect BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS

To achieve perfectly cooked BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose quality bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon to ensure it crisps up nicely and holds its shape while cooking.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Place the chicken tenders in a single layer on your baking sheet. This allows them to cook evenly and become crispy.

• Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier after cooking.

• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to modify the spice blend according to your preferences. Adding more chili powder can give it an extra kick!

• Cook until crispy: Keep an eye on the bacon while cooking; let it get golden brown for that perfect crunchy texture.

Best Side Dishes for BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS

Pairing side dishes with BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS can create a balanced meal that’s sure to impress. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that complements the savory tenders.

2. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with olive oil and seasoning offer a delightful crunch that pairs well with the juicy chicken.

3. Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders.

4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic side that brings sweetness to your plate, enhancing your meal’s flavors.

5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while providing a refreshing contrast to the savory bacon taste.

6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet flavor profile that pairs nicely with salty bacon, making for an irresistible combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making bacon-wrapped chicken tenders, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to coat all sides of the chicken tenders with the spice mix for maximum taste.

• Not using enough bacon – Using too little bacon may result in dry chicken. Ensure each tender is fully wrapped to maintain moisture and add that crispy texture.

• Ignoring cooking time – Overcooking or undercooking can ruin your dish. Always monitor the cooking time closely, aiming for 30 minutes at 350 F.

• Inadequate storage – Not storing leftovers properly can lead to spoilage. Use airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of cooking.

• Forgetting about customization – Sticking strictly to the recipe can limit flavors. Feel free to experiment with different spices and sauces to make it your own.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• Best if consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350 F, place on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals, checking frequently so they don’t become rubbery.
• Stovetop – Reheat over medium heat in a skillet, turning occasionally until heated through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS?

BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS are juicy chicken strips wrapped in crispy bacon, seasoned perfectly, and baked or smoked for a delicious meal.

How do I make BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS crispy?

To achieve crispy BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS, ensure that you wrap the chicken tightly in bacon and bake them at the right temperature without overcrowding the pan.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken tenders with turkey tenderloins for a leaner option while still enjoying the same great flavors of BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS.

What dipping sauces pair well with BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS?

BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard are excellent choices that complement the flavors of BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS beautifully.

Can I prepare BACON-WRAPPED CHICKEN TENDERS ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can season and wrap the chicken earlier in the day; just keep them refrigerated until ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic appetizer or main dish. Feel free to customize them with different spices or dipping sauces to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!