Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders (Printer-Friendly Version)
Tender chicken wrapped in crisp bacon, seasoned with smoky spices and baked to a golden finish.
# Ingredients Needed:
→ Spice Blend
01 -
2 tablespoons brown sugar
02 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
03 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 -
½ teaspoon salt
06 -
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Main Ingredients
07 -
1 pound chicken tenders
08 -
10 strips of regular cut bacon
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Set oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with a cooling rack to promote air circulation beneath the bacon-wrapped tenders.
02 -
Combine brown sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until evenly mixed with no lumps.
03 -
Add chicken tenders to the seasoning blend and toss thoroughly, ensuring all surfaces are evenly coated.
04 -
Wrap each seasoned chicken tender tightly with one strip of bacon, slightly overlapping edges to fully cover the chicken.
05 -
Place the bacon-wrapped tenders seam side down on the prepared rack, spacing them evenly for optimal air flow.
06 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and bacon begins to turn golden.
07 -
Switch oven to broil, move the pan close to the top heating element, and broil each side for 2 to 3 minutes until bacon crisps to desired texture, watching carefully to prevent burning.
08 -
Remove from oven and allow tenders to rest for a few minutes to retain juiciness before serving.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
For enhanced flavor, let the spice rub rest on the chicken for several minutes before wrapping with bacon.
02 -
Drain excess bacon fat halfway through baking to encourage crispness if bacon is very fatty.
03 -
Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.