Bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are the perfect blend of juicy, crispy, and flavorful. The bacon locks in the chicken’s moisture while the brown sugar creates a delicious caramelized glaze. A simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish!
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 10 tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders (approximately 10 tenders)
- 10 strips bacon
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ to 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tbsp chili powder
Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
- Combine all the spices (except chili powder) with salt.
- Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the chicken tenders, ensuring all sides are coated.
- Wrap in Bacon:
- Wrap each chicken tender with a strip of bacon, folding the ends securely underneath.
- Add Sweet & Spicy Glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and chili powder.
- Sprinkle this mixture generously over the bacon-wrapped chicken, pressing lightly so it sticks.
- Bake or Smoke:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the prepared chicken tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Alternatively, cook in a smoker with the lid closed for about 30 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove from the oven or smoker and serve hot. These tenders pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard.
Notes
- Prep Tip: Wash and thoroughly dry the chicken tenders with paper towels before seasoning.
- Coating Hack: For even seasoning, place the chicken and spices in a zip-top bag, seal, and shake until coated.
- Bacon Adhesion: If the brown sugar mixture doesn’t stick well, lightly brush the bacon with vegetable oil to help it adhere.
- Cooking Tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
This irresistible recipe is perfect for parties, game days, or weeknight dinners—easy, flavorful, and sure to be a hit!
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