Description

Indulge in the delectable delight of Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders, an irresistible dish that consistently vanishes moments after it emerges from the oven. This recipe combines the savory richness of bacon with tender, juicy chicken tenders, creating a flavor sensation that is both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, enjoying a family meal, or simply seeking a tasty treat for a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress.

Ideal for those following a low-carb diet, these bacon-wrapped wonders don't skimp on flavor. Imagine crispy bacon enveloping succulent chicken, with a hint of garlic and smoked paprika enhancing every bite. Perfectly paired with a light salad or some roasted veggies, these tenders can be your go-to dish for any occasion. With an easy preparation method and quickly cooked time, you'll find yourself making these again and again, as they become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 8 slices of bacon
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Preparation Method

Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 400 degrees Fahrenheit, or 200 degrees Celsius. As the oven warms, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and make clean-up a breeze.

Next, in a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. This spice mixture brings a wonderful depth of flavor, ensuring that each tender is seasoned to perfection. The aroma from the spices alone will have your mouth watering in anticipation.

Take the chicken tenders and drizzle them with olive oil. This step is crucial as it helps the spices adhere better to the chicken and enhances the overall flavor. Once coated in oil, generously sprinkle your spice blend over the tenders, ensuring an even distribution. Make sure all sides of the chicken are nicely seasoned, as this is what creates that glorious flavor everyone will love.

Now comes the magic: wrapping the chicken. Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around a chicken tender. You want the bacon to cover as much of the surface area as possible. If the ends of the bacon don’t stay in place, don’t worry—secure them with toothpicks to keep everything intact as they cook. It’s this combination of crispy bacon and juicy chicken that creates a mouthwatering bite.

Once you've wrapped all the chicken tenders, arrange them neatly on the prepared baking sheet. Try to leave some space between each tender to allow for even cooking and crisping of the bacon. You'll want to make sure they don’t touch, as that can lead to soggy spots instead of crispy goodness.

Carefully place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the chicken is cooked through. Keep an eye on them as they bake; the delectable smell of crispy bacon will be hard to resist, and you're likely to find yourself eagerly awaiting the moment they come out of the oven.

Once they are done baking, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for just a few minutes before serving. This resting period is important as it allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, keeping every bite juicy and tender.

Tips and Conclusion

For those who enjoy a kick of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to your spice blend for a spicy twist. Alternatively, for a smoky-sweet flavor, you could brush the chicken tenders with a sugar-free barbecue sauce before wrapping them in bacon. Experimenting with different herbs and spices—like rosemary or thyme—can also offer unique flavor profiles, allowing you to customize the dish to your liking.
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders are the perfect blend of simple ingredients and incredible taste, making them ideal for any occasion. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, it’s no wonder they disappear in seconds. As they pair beautifully with fresh salads or roasted veggies, serving these tenders with your favorite side ensures a complete meal that satisfies every palate.

The best part? They are so easy to prepare that even novice cooks can impress family and friends with this delightful recipe. Once you take that first crispy bite, you’ll find yourself addicted to the flavorful combination of bacon and chicken. So, gather the ingredients, head to the kitchen, and prepare to enjoy these mouthwatering Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders that truly never last a minute out of the oven!