bacon wrapped chicken tenders recipe

The Best bacon wrapped chicken tenders recipe

Bacon-wrapped chicken tenders have been a staple in my kitchen for years—not just because they’re delicious, but because they’re a game-changer for busy families. There’s something about the crispy, smoky flavor of bacon that makes even simple chicken feel special, and it’s a recipe that works for everything from casual weeknight dinners to fun family game nights. My kids love them because they’re handheld, easy to eat, and always get a reaction when someone takes a bite—they’re that good. It’s not just about taste, though. The protein from the chicken keeps everyone full, and the bacon adds a satisfying crunch without all the grease if you bake it properly. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies if you stuff the tenders with a mix of diced bell peppers and onions before wrapping. It’s a recipe that’s foolproof, customizable, and always a hit with minimal effort.

I love this recipe because it’s versatile enough to fit into any meal plan—whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up something quick for a weekend gathering. My husband and I have used it for everything from holiday dinners to lazy Sunday brunches, and it never disappoints. The kids will beg for seconds, and the adults will keep coming back for seconds too. It’s also a great way to make healthy swaps without sacrificing flavor. The baking method keeps the chicken lean while still giving it that crispy exterior, and you can adjust the spices to suit whatever seasoning you prefer—garlic, paprika, or even a touch of cayenne if you like it spicy. It’s a recipe that’s as easy as it is satisfying, and it’s one of those things that feels like a treat but isn’t. Plus, it’s a hit with guests, whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue or a family potluck.

Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders with Crispy Garlic Sauce

4.9 from 537 votes

Juicy, crispy chicken tenders wrapped in bacon and glazed with a tangy garlic tomato sauce for a delicious twist on a classic. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time25 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time45 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika

For the Bacon Wrapping

• 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces

For the Garlic Sauce

• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2 In a shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
3. 3 Dredge chicken strips in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. 4 In a separate bowl, mix tomato sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, mayonnaise, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
5. 5 Cut bacon into 1-inch pieces and place half on each chicken strip. Wrap tightly with bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. 6 Place wrapped tenders on the baking sheet. Pour the garlic sauce over them.
7. 7 Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until bacon is crispy and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

🔧Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Oven
• Parchment paper
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22💛Saturated Fat: 10❤️Cholesterol: 100🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 25🥦Dietary Fiber: 2🍬Sugars: 6🥩Protein: 30

📝Notes

For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end if desired.,Substitute whole wheat flour for a lower-carb option.,Ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

This bacon-wrapped chicken tenders recipe is always a winner because it’s simple enough to make ahead and still tastes fresh when served, which is perfect for busy family gatherings. The smoky, savory flavor of the bacon keeps everyone coming back for seconds, and it’s versatile enough to pair with almost any side dish—whether it’s a quick salad, mashed potatoes, or even a simple green bean casserole. Plus, it’s a great way to get kids excited about eating healthier without them even noticing.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders with Crispy Garlic Sauce

How long should I wrap the chicken tenders with bacon before cooking?

You can wrap the chicken tenders with bacon for 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking. Longer wrapping allows the bacon to crisp and flavor the chicken more thoroughly, but it’s not strictly necessary—just ensure the chicken is fully covered.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken tenders instead of fresh?

Yes! You can use pre-cooked chicken tenders (fresh or frozen) for this recipe. Simply wrap them in bacon and cook as directed, adjusting the cooking time slightly if needed to account for any residual moisture.

What’s the best way to crisp the bacon without burning it?

To avoid burning, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the wrapped chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This ensures even crisping without direct heat contact. Flip halfway through cooking if desired.

Can I make bacon-wrapped chicken tenders ahead of time?

Yes, but prepare them just before cooking to maintain crispiness. Store wrapped tenders in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then cook straight from frozen if needed—adjust time by 10-15 minutes.

What’s a good substitute if I don’t have bacon?

If you’re out of bacon, try crispy prosciutto, smoked ham, or even thinly sliced pork belly. For extra flavor, brush with garlic butter or lemon aioli before cooking.