Bacon wrapped chicken tenders are a delightful combination of juicy chicken and crispy bacon that everyone will love. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. The savory flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of making these mouthwatering bacon wrapped chicken tenders. You’ll learn about the ingredients, cooking techniques, and tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time. Whether you are serving them as an appetizer or a main course, these tenders are bound to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
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, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 1 pound of chicken breasts cut into strips; this gives you tender bites that wrap perfectly in bacon.
- Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for an extra crispy finish; about 8-10 slices should suffice depending on the number of tenders.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken; use them liberally according to taste.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a wonderful depth of flavor; sprinkle over the chicken before wrapping.
- Brown Sugar: Optional but recommended for a sweet glaze that balances the saltiness of the bacon.
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 Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Season Chicken
In a bowl, season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Ensure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Wrap in Bacon
Take one slice of bacon and wrap it around each seasoned chicken strip securely. Place wrapped pieces seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Sprinkle with Brown Sugar
If using brown sugar, lightly sprinkle it over each bacon-wrapped tender for added sweetness before baking.
Step 5: Bake in Oven
Bake in 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 Hot
Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining brown sugar glaze if desired. Enjoy your crispy treats fresh out of the oven!
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
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Crispier Bacon: For extra crispiness, broil on high for an additional two minutes after baking
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. Season the chicken tenders and wrap them in bacon, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Storing: Store any leftover Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; they will maintain quality for up to two months when properly sealed.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet and cover them with aluminum foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This method helps preserve their crispy texture.
Suggestions for Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders :
Choose the Right Type of Bacon
Selecting the right bacon is crucial for perfect Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders. Thick-cut bacon has a greater fat content, which provides more flavor and moisture during cooking. However, using standard cut bacon can result in a crispier texture. Avoid using turkey bacon, as it lacks the necessary fat to complement the chicken tenders. Additionally, ensure that the bacon is fresh to achieve the best flavor and texture. If possible, opt for uncured bacon without preservatives to enhance the natural taste of your dish. Experiment with different types of bacon to discover what suits your palate best.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Overcooking chicken tenders can lead to dry and unappetizing results in your Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders. To avoid this common mistake, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of your chicken tenders. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption, but removing them from heat just before they hit that mark can help maintain juiciness. Cooking times will vary depending on thickness, so adjust accordingly. Remember to factor in carryover cooking; the chicken will continue to cook slightly even after being removed from heat.
Use Proper Seasoning
Seasoning is essential for flavorful Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders. While the bacon adds richness, you should not forget about seasoning the chicken itself. A simple mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika can elevate flavors significantly. Avoid over-seasoning or under-seasoning; finding the right balance is key. Marinating the chicken in your favorite spices or sauces before wrapping it in bacon can also enhance its flavor profile. Remember that flavors concentrate while cooking, so you may need less seasoning than you think.
Secure Bacon Properly
Improperly secured bacon can lead to messy results when making Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders. To avoid this issue, use toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold the bacon in place during cooking. Ensure that each strip of bacon overlaps slightly when wrapping around each tender for maximum coverage and flavor infusion. You can also tuck the ends of the bacon underneath each tender to secure it better. This not only helps keep everything intact but also allows for even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
FAQs :
What are some variations of Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders?
There are numerous ways to customize Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders based on personal preferences and dietary restrictions. You can experiment with different seasonings or marinades like barbecue sauce or teriyaki sauce for added flavor depth. For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeño slices or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper before wrapping them in bacon. Additionally, you could stuff chicken tenders with cheese or vegetables before wrapping them up for a delightful surprise in every bite! These variations allow you to create unique dishes that cater to various tastes.
Can I bake Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders instead of frying?
Yes! Baking is an excellent alternative for preparing Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders if you’re looking for a healthier option or want to minimize oil usage. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the wrapped tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Bake them for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. This method allows excess fat from the bacon to drain away while ensuring even cooking throughout.
How do I store leftovers of Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders?
Storing leftovers properly ensures that your Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders remain delicious even after reheating. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; wrap each tender individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy.
What side dishes pair well with Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders?
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors and textures. Consider serving them alongside crispy roasted vegetables or a fresh salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for contrast. Mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries add comfort and balance nicely against savory notes from the dish as well. Another great option is coleslaw, which provides crunch and acidity that brightens each bite while cutting through richness effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders involves careful attention to detail from selecting ingredients down to cooking methods used. By choosing quality bacon, avoiding overcooked chicken, seasoning thoughtfully, and securing everything properly during preparation, you will create mouthwatering tenders every time! Don’t hesitate to explore variations according to your preferences while experimenting with baking as an alternative cooking method when needed! Proper storage techniques ensure that leftovers remain enjoyable too! These tips will elevate your dish while impressing family and friends alike!
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food, perfectly blending the tender juiciness of chicken strips with the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon. This simple recipe requires minimal ingredients and preparation time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. The sweet and savory flavor profile ensures satisfaction for every palate, whether served as a tempting appetizer or a hearty main course. With just a few straightforward steps, you can have delicious bacon wrapped chicken tenders ready in under an hour, leaving your guests eager for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
- 8–10 slices thick-cut bacon
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Brown sugar (for added sweetness)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Wrap each chicken strip with a slice of bacon, placing them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- If desired, sprinkle brown sugar over each piece for extra sweetness.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
