Delicious Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders: A Perfect Recipe for Meat Lovers
Calling all meat lovers! If you’re looking for a mouthwatering dish that combines the savory goodness of bacon with tender chicken, then you’ve come to the right place. Bacon wrapped chicken tenders are a delectable treat that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Not only are they incredibly delicious, but they’re also easy to make. So, let’s dive right in and discover how to cook these irresistible bacon delights!
What You’ll Need:
- Chicken tenders
- Bacon strips
- Salt and pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Toothpicks
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Ensure that both sides are evenly coated with the spices.
- Take a bacon strip and wrap it tightly around each seasoned chicken tender. Secure the bacon in place by inserting a toothpick through the end.
- Place the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
- Once they’re done, carefully remove the toothpicks and let the bacon wrapped chicken tenders cool for a few minutes before serving.
These bacon wrapped chicken tenders make a fantastic appetizer for parties or a delicious main course served with roasted vegetables and a side salad. The succulent chicken and crispy bacon create an explosion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
For some extra flavor, try brushing the bacon wrapped tenders with barbecue sauce or a honey glaze before baking. This will add a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the smoky bacon and tender chicken.
Whether you’re a fan of bacon, chicken, or both, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s a perfect dish for those lazy weekends when you want to prepare something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
So, go ahead and give these bacon wrapped chicken tenders a try. We guarantee you’ll fall in love with the irresistible combination of bacon and chicken flavors. Happy cooking!
Want to share your experience cooking bacon wrapped chicken tenders or have any tips to perfect this dish? Join the discussion in the Cooking Techniques forum!
FAQ:
Q: Can I use any type of bacon for wrapping the chicken tenders?
A: Yes, you can use any type of bacon you prefer. However, thicker-cut bacon works better as it holds its shape and doesn’t shrink as much during cooking.
Q: Should I marinate the chicken tenders before wrapping them in bacon?
A: It is not necessary to marinate the chicken tenders before wrapping them in bacon. The bacon adds plenty of flavor to the dish. However, if you prefer, you can marinate the chicken tenders in your favorite marinade for a few hours before wrapping them.
Q: How do I prevent the bacon from shrinking and becoming too crispy?
A: To prevent the bacon from shrinking excessively and becoming too crispy, partially cook it in a skillet before wrapping it around the chicken tenders. This will ensure that the bacon is partially cooked, but still pliable enough to wrap around the chicken.
Q: What seasonings can I use for the chicken tenders?
A: You can use a variety of seasonings to add flavor to the chicken tenders. Some popular options include garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and herbs like thyme or rosemary. Season the chicken tenders to your taste before wrapping them in bacon.
Q: Can I cook bacon wrapped chicken tenders on a grill?
A: Yes, you can cook bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on a grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the wrapped tenders for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
Q: How do I ensure the chicken tenders are cooked thoroughly?
A: It’s important to ensure that the chicken tenders are cooked thoroughly to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the chicken. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tender, being careful not to touch the bacon, and make sure it reads 165°F (74°C) before removing from heat.
Q: Can I make bacon-wrapped chicken tenders in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare bacon-wrapped chicken tenders in advance. If you want to save time, you can wrap the chicken tenders in bacon and refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking for even cooking throughout.
Want to share your experience cooking bacon wrapped chicken tenders or have any tips to perfect this dish? Join the discussion in the Cooking Techniques forum!
FAQ:
Can I use any type of bacon to wrap the chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use any type of bacon to wrap the chicken tenders. However, it’s recommended to use thin-cut bacon as it cooks faster and ensures even wrapping around the chicken.
How do I ensure that the bacon stays securely wrapped around the chicken tenders?
To ensure that the bacon stays securely wrapped around the chicken tenders, you can either use toothpicks to hold them in place or wrap the bacon tightly enough so that it won’t unravel during cooking.
Should I marinate the chicken tenders before wrapping them in bacon?
Marinating the chicken tenders before wrapping them in bacon is optional but highly recommended. It adds flavor and helps keep the chicken moist during cooking. You can marinate them in your preferred marinade or simply season them with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
What is the best way to cook bacon-wrapped chicken tenders?
The best way to cook bacon-wrapped chicken tenders is by baking them in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the wrapped chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
Can I cook bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on the grill?
Yes, you can definitely cook bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on the grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and place the wrapped chicken tenders directly on the grill grates. Cook for approximately 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
Are there any variations I can try with bacon-wrapped chicken tenders?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors by adding a marinade or glaze to the chicken before wrapping it in bacon. Some popular options include barbecue glaze, honey mustard marinade, or even a spicy buffalo sauce. Additionally, you can stuff the chicken tenders with cheese, jalapenos, or herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Can I make bacon-wrapped chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare bacon-wrapped chicken tenders ahead of time. Simply wrap the chicken tenders in bacon, secure them with toothpicks if needed, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. Just remember to remove the toothpicks before serving.
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