why make this recipe
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders are a delicious and simple dish that combines the juicy goodness of chicken with the savory crunch of bacon. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, a family gathering, or a game day snack. Everyone loves bacon, and when it’s wrapped around tender chicken, it creates a flavor explosion that is hard to resist. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires just a few ingredients, making it accessible for anyone, regardless of cooking experience.
how to make Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Ingredients:
- 1 and 1/2 pounds chicken tenderloins
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cracked pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 pound bacon
- Ranch dressing for dipping
Directions:
- Use a paper towel to pat dry the chicken tenders.
- In a small bowl, add brown sugar, chili powder, salt, pepper, and mustard. Stir to combine.
- Sprinkle about three-quarters of the seasoning mix over the chicken. Rub it in to coat both sides.
- Wrap each chicken piece in a strip of bacon, tucking the ends under.
- Rub the remaining spices over the bacon to coat it.
- Spritz the air fryer basket with non-stick spray and arrange the chicken in an even layer.
- Air fry at 400 degrees for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
- Serve with ranch dressing for dipping.
how to serve Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders are best served hot and fresh. You can place them on a nice serving platter and offer ranch dressing on the side for dipping. This dish can be paired with crunchy vegetables, a fresh salad, or your choice of sides to make it a complete meal. It also works great as an appetizer for parties!
how to store Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in an oven or an air fryer until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it may make the bacon soggy.
tips to make Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry well. This helps the bacon stick better and prevents excess moisture.
- Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and flavor.
- If you want extra spice, feel free to add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning mix.
- For an added layer of flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mixture for a few hours before wrapping.
variation
You can customize this recipe by adding different spices to the seasoning mix. For a barbecue twist, consider using smoked paprika instead of chili powder. For a tangy flavor, mix some barbecue sauce with the ranch dressing for dipping.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake these in the oven instead of using an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.
Q: Is it necessary to use Ranch dressing?
A: Not at all! You can use any dipping sauce you like, such as honey mustard or barbecue sauce.
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but you may want to cut them into smaller strips to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Method
- Use a paper towel to pat dry the chicken tenders.
- In a small bowl, add brown sugar, chili powder, salt, pepper, and mustard. Stir to combine.
- Sprinkle about three-quarters of the seasoning mix over the chicken and rub it in to coat both sides.
- Wrap each chicken piece in a strip of bacon, tucking the ends under.
- Rub the remaining spices over the bacon to coat it.
- Spritz the air fryer basket with non-stick spray and arrange the chicken in an even layer.
- Air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
- Serve hot and fresh with ranch dressing for dipping.