These bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy chicken is hugged by crispy bacon, making every bite a delightful combination of flavors.
If you’re like me, the smell of bacon cooking can make you do a happy dance! These tenders are perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce—yum!
They are super easy to make and are a hit at parties. Just wrap, bake, and enjoy the crispy goodness that everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Tenders: Fresh or frozen chicken tenders work well. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use chicken breasts cut into strips, but keep in mind that they may take a bit longer to cook.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for extra flavor and crispiness. If you’re keeping it healthier, turkey bacon is a lighter alternative. Just note that it may not crisp up in the same way.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for this recipe because it adds a nice bite. If you prefer something milder or creamier, Monterey Jack or Gouda can be great substitutes.
Spices: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works just fine. You could also add a pinch of cayenne if you like a little heat. Feel free to play around with your favorite spices, like chili powder or Italian seasoning!
How Do I Ensure My Bacon Gets Crispy While Cooking?
Getting that bacon crispy is essential for great texture! Here are some tips to make sure it turns out perfectly:
- Use a wire rack on the baking sheet if you have one. This allows air to circulate and helps the bacon crisp up all around.
- Make sure the bacon is fully covering the chicken. This traps heat and helps it cook evenly.
- Try broiling them for the last few minutes. Just keep a close eye so they don’t burn!
- If they’re not crispy enough after the baking time, you can always pop them in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them up.
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 8 slices of bacon
For the Seasoning:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Barbecue sauce (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 20-25 minutes for baking. So in total, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. The combination of crispy bacon and cheesy tenders is definitely worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make clean-up easier later on.
2. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This spice mix will add great flavor to your chicken tenders!
3. Season the Chicken Tenders:
Take each chicken tender and sprinkle a bit of your spice mixture on both sides. This step is important as it sets the flavor for the dish!
4. Add the Cheese:
Place about a tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese on top of each chicken tender. This will melt beautifully as the chicken cooks, adding a delicious cheesy element.
5. Wrap with Bacon:
Starting at one end, take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each chicken tender, covering the cheese completely. If the bacon isn’t staying put, feel free to use toothpicks to secure it.
6. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet with the seam side down. This will help them stay wrapped during baking.
7. Bake the Chicken Tenders:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and the bacon to be nice and crispy. You can check the chicken’s doneness by cutting into one to make sure it’s no longer pink inside.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re baked to perfection, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve them hot with barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious bacon-wrapped chicken tenders!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative for a leaner option. Just note that it might not get as crispy as regular bacon, so cooking times may vary slightly. Keep an eye on the tenders to ensure the turkey bacon is cooked through and golden.
What Can I Substitute for Cheddar Cheese?
If you don’t have cheddar cheese, you can use other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just be sure to shred it for even melting and distribution over the chicken tenders.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bacon-wrapped chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness, or microwave if you’re short on time.
Can I Prepare These Chicken Tenders in Advance?
Yes, you can! Assemble the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders up to a day ahead and store them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed, adding an extra few minutes if they’re coming straight from the fridge.
