Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 10 tenders)
- 10 slices of bacon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for a sweet glaze)
- Toothpicks (for securing bacon)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top (this allows the bacon to crisp evenly).
- Season the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Season the chicken tenders evenly with this spice mixture.
- Wrap the Chicken:
- Wrap each chicken tender tightly with one slice of bacon, starting at one end and spiraling the bacon around the tender.
- Secure the bacon in place with a toothpick at the end.
- If using brown sugar, lightly sprinkle it over the bacon-wrapped tenders for a sweet and smoky glaze.
- Bake the Tenders:
- Place the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on the wire rack (this will allow the heat to circulate and the bacon to crisp).
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- To make the bacon extra crispy, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Serve:
- Remove the toothpicks and serve the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard.
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders!
