Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders

Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders are a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines juicy chicken with the savory, crispy goodness of bacon. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, appetizers, or even party snacks. The chicken tenders are seasoned with a blend of spices, wrapped in bacon, and baked to perfection. The result is a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress. Follow the detailed instructions below to make this delicious treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 pound chicken tenders (approx. 10 chicken tenders)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon salt
• 10 strips bacon
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. This allows the bacon to cook evenly and become crispy.
2. Season the Chicken:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, chili powder, black pepper, and salt.
   • Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken tenders, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
3. Wrap with Bacon:
   • Take one strip of bacon and wrap it around each chicken tender. Start at one end and wrap tightly, slightly overlapping the bacon as you go. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if necessary.
4. Coat with Brown Sugar:
   • Place the brown sugar on a plate or shallow dish. Roll each bacon-wrapped chicken tender in the brown sugar, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres well.
5. Bake:
   • Arrange the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on the wire rack on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out to allow for even cooking.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through. You can check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve:
   • Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy chicken.

Cook’s Notes:

• Bacon Choice: Thin-cut bacon works best for this recipe as it crisps up nicely and cooks through in the same time as the chicken.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to your taste. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Sugar Alternative: If you prefer a less sweet version, you can skip the brown sugar or use a sugar substitute.

Variations:

1. Honey Mustard Glaze:
   • Mix 1/4 cup honey with 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard. Brush this mixture over the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders before baking for a sweet and tangy twist.
2. BBQ Flavor:
   • Substitute the brown sugar with your favorite BBQ seasoning or rub. This adds a smoky and savory flavor to the dish.
3. Herb Infusion:
   • Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the seasoning mix for an aromatic and flavorful variation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
   • Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Cut them into strips similar in size to chicken tenders for even cooking.
2. Can I prepare these ahead of time?
   • Absolutely! You can wrap the chicken tenders in bacon and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Just make sure to roll them in brown sugar right before baking.
3. How do I store leftovers?
   • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain crispiness.
4. Can I cook these on the grill?
   • Yes, you can grill the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders over medium heat, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
5. What dipping sauces go well with these?
   • These tenders pair well with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or main course. With a perfect balance of spices, the savory bacon, and the slight sweetness from the brown sugar, these tenders are sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is guaranteed to please. Enjoy the crispy, juicy, and flavorful goodness of these Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders at your next meal or gathering. Happy cooking!