Irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with our Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders recipe. It’s a match made in heaven – succulent chicken tenders enveloped in crispy, smoky bacon. Whether you’re looking for a savory appetizer, a crowd-pleasing party snack, or a mouthwatering main course, these bacon-wrapped wonders will leave you craving for more. Let’s dive into the recipe and elevate your chicken game!
Ingredients:
For the Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders:
- 1 pound chicken tenders (about 10-12 tenders)
- 10-12 slices of bacon (thin-sliced works best)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Toothpicks, for securing bacon
For the Marinade (optional):
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or your preferred herbs)
Instructions:
Prep the Chicken Tenders:
- If using a marinade, combine all the marinade ingredients in a bowl and whisk until well blended. Place the chicken tenders in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 2-4 hours, to infuse flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This will help elevate the chicken tenders and allow excess bacon fat to drip off during cooking.
- Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade (if using) and pat them dry with paper towels. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if desired.
- Take each chicken tender and wrap it with a slice of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks. Place the bacon-wrapped tenders on the wire rack, ensuring they’re evenly spaced.
Bake the Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders: 5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through. You can also broil them for a couple of minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
- Once done, remove the toothpicks from the bacon-wrapped tenders and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve and Enjoy: 7. Arrange the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on a platter and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard.
Cook’s Notes:
- Thin-sliced bacon works best for wrapping the chicken tenders as it cooks faster and becomes crispier.
- If you prefer, you can use toothpicks that have been soaked in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning in the oven.
- Feel free to customize the marinade with your favorite seasonings and herbs for a unique flavor profile.
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders are a delightful combination of tender chicken and crispy bacon, making them a surefire hit at any gathering or as a satisfying meal on their own. Whether you’re enjoying them as an appetizer, snack, or main course, the smoky, savory flavors will have you coming back for more. So, fire up your oven and savor the irresistible goodness of these bacon-wrapped wonders!
