Who doesn’t love the irresistible combination of crispy bacon and juicy chicken? If you’re craving a dish that’s both mouthwatering and easy to prepare, then bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are the perfect solution. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or need a show-stopping appetizer for your next gathering, these tender, flavorful bites are sure to impress.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the best bacon-wrapped chicken tenders — from simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to step-by-step instructions for perfecting this crowd-pleaser. Plus, we’ll share expert tips and variations to customize your tenders to suit any occasion. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!

If you’re wondering why bacon-wrapped recipes are so popular, it’s all about that crispy, smoky goodness paired with tender meat — a combination that never disappoints. As you’ll see in this guide to flavor pairing, bacon and chicken are a match made in culinary heaven. Keep reading to discover how you can create this deliciously simple meal at home!

Key Benefits of Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders

A Flavorful Combination of Tender Chicken and Crispy Bacon

Chicken and bacon create a classic, irresistible duo. Juicy chicken pairs perfectly with crispy, smoky bacon, offering a blend of textures and flavors that never fails. Bacon locks in moisture, keeping chicken tender while adding bold, savory notes.

Try variations like maple-glazed bacon or spicy rubs for a custom twist. Use a wire rack for crispiness, broiling briefly for extra crunch. What’s your favorite way to enjoy this recipe?

Quick and Easy Meal for Busy Weeknights

Looking for a simple, delicious dinner idea? Bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are the perfect solution! With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe comes together in no time.

Ideal for busy evenings, these tenders bake quickly in the oven, delivering juicy chicken wrapped in crispy, smoky bacon. Pair with your favorite sides like roasted veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Recipe

Creating the best bacon-wrapped chicken tenders starts with simple, high-quality ingredients:

• Chicken Tenders: Fresh, tender, and juicy for the best results.
• Bacon: Thin-cut for optimal crispiness without overpowering the chicken.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper for flavor.

Optional extras like maple syrup or BBQ sauce can take the flavor up a notch. These ingredients work together to deliver a delicious dish every time! What seasonings would you add?

Why the Quality of Ingredients Matters

Using high-quality ingredients makes all the difference in creating flavorful, tender bacon-wrapped chicken tenders.

• Fresh Chicken Tenders: Ensures juiciness and a clean, natural taste.
• Premium Bacon: Adds a perfect balance of crispiness and smoky flavor.
• Fresh Spices: Enhances the dish with bold, vibrant flavors.

Investing in top-tier ingredients guarantees a better taste, texture, and overall dining experience. Remember, great recipes start with great ingredients!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders

How to Properly Wrap Chicken with Bacon

Wrapping chicken with bacon is simple but requires a little technique for perfection:

1. Start at One End: Place the bacon strip at one end of the chicken tender.
2. Wrap Tightly: Roll the bacon around the chicken, overlapping slightly to secure.
3. Seam Side Down: Place the wrapped tender seam-side down on the baking sheet to prevent unrolling.

Baking Time and Temperature for Perfect Results

Achieve perfectly cooked bacon-wrapped chicken tenders by following these guidelines:

1. Temperature: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Baking Time: Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

For crispy bacon, broil for the last 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning. Perfectly juicy and crispy every time!

Pro Tips and Variations for Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders

Add Cheese for Extra Flavor

Take your bacon-wrapped chicken tenders to the next level by adding cheese:

1. Stuff It: Slice the chicken tender slightly and fill it with mozzarella, cheddar, or cream cheese.
2. Wrap It: Secure the cheese inside by wrapping tightly with bacon.

As it bakes, the cheese melts into the chicken, adding a creamy, gooey layer of flavor. What’s your favorite cheese for this recipe?

Customize with Different Spices and Marinades

Elevate your bacon-wrapped chicken tenders by experimenting with spices and marinades:

1. Spice Rubs: Try smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, or Italian seasoning for bold flavors.
2. Marinades: Soak the chicken in teriyaki sauce, honey mustard, or a garlic-lime marinade for extra depth.

Serving Suggestions for Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders

Perfect Side Dishes to Pair with Chicken Tenders

Complete your meal by pairing bacon-wrapped chicken tenders with these delicious side dishes:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Crispy Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus add a healthy, flavorful balance.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes complement the smoky chicken and bacon perfectly.
3. Fresh Salad: A light, zesty salad with a vinaigrette dressing keeps the meal fresh and vibrant.

Serving for Special Occasions and Family Meals

Bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are versatile enough to serve at any occasion. Here’s how to make them shine:

1. For Special Occasions: Arrange the tenders on a platter with a drizzle of BBQ sauce or honey mustard for dipping. Add garnishes like fresh herbs for an elegant touch.
2. For Family Meals: Serve alongside comforting sides like mac and cheese or roasted potatoes for a hearty, satisfying spread everyone will love.

Why This is the Best Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders Recipe

When it comes to making bacon-wrapped chicken tenders, simplicity and flavor are key. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

A Simple Recipe for Maximum Flavor

This recipe is as straightforward as it gets, requiring only a few ingredients: chicken tenders, bacon, and your choice of spices. The simplicity allows the natural flavors of the chicken and bacon to shine, while the spices add just the right amount of kick. No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients—just pure, delicious comfort food!

A Versatile Dish You Can Make Again and Again

One of the best things about bacon-wrapped chicken tenders is how adaptable they are. You can easily customize them with different seasonings, sauces, or even cheeses. Whether you’re serving them for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, they’ll always be a hit. Plus, they’re quick enough for weeknight meals but impressive enough for a gathering with friends!

bacon wrapped chicken tenders​

Bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are the ultimate combination of tender, juicy chicken and crispy, savory bacon. This recipe is easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners, or impressing guests at a special occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor in every bite. Feel free to experiment with different spices or add a touch of cheese for an extra twist. Whether you serve it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes, this recipe is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 4 chicken tenders (about 1 lb / 450g) If you prefer, you can substitute chicken breasts cut into strips.
• 8 slices of bacon Thick-cut bacon is recommended for extra crispiness.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml) Optional: For brushing the bacon before baking to enhance crispiness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (5g)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (5g)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2g)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (2g) Optional: Add 1/2 teaspoon of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
• Season the chicken tenders: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly on all sides of the chicken tenders.
• Wrap the bacon: Take one slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around each chicken tender. Overlap the bacon slightly to ensure it stays in place during cooking.
• Arrange the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders: Place the wrapped chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring that the bacon ends are tucked underneath to prevent unraveling during baking.
• Brush with olive oil (optional): Lightly brush each bacon-wrapped chicken tender with olive oil to help achieve a crispier bacon exterior.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you want extra crispiness, you can broil the tenders for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
• Serve immediately: Let the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Storage: Leftover bacon-wrapped chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Substitutions: Try adding a sprinkle of grated cheese over the tenders before baking for a cheesy twist. Alternatively, use turkey bacon for a leaner version of the recipe.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. These tenders also work well with a side of dipping sauces such as ranch, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of tenders! To adjust the recipe, cut the chicken breasts into strips or smaller pieces, about the same size as tenders. This ensures they cook evenly and wrap nicely in bacon. You may also need to increase the baking time slightly, depending on the thickness of the chicken, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I make bacon-wrapped chicken tenders in advance?

Absolutely! You can prep the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders a day ahead. Simply assemble the tenders, wrap them in bacon, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, pop them into the oven as usual. If you want to freeze them, arrange the tenders on a baking sheet and freeze until firm before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you’ll have a ready-to-bake meal whenever you need it!

How do I make bacon-wrapped chicken tenders crispy?

To achieve perfectly crispy bacon, here are a few tips:

• Brush with oil or butter: Lightly brushing the bacon with olive oil or melted butter before baking can help it crisp up nicely.
• Use a wire rack: Place the tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow air to circulate around the bacon, ensuring even crispiness.
• Broil at the end: If you want extra crispiness, broil the tenders for 2-3 minutes after baking, keeping a close eye on them to avoid burning.

Can I freeze bacon-wrapped chicken tenders?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked bacon-wrapped chicken tenders. After assembling the tenders, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To cook from frozen, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, you can thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.