Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders

These Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders are a delicious, savory treat perfect for any occasion. They combine the juicy tenderness of chicken with the smoky crispiness of bacon, all enhanced by a flavorful blend of spices and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar. Whether grilled or baked, these tenders are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 pound chicken tenders (approximately 10 chicken tenders)
• 10 strips bacon
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat:

• Preheat your grill or oven to 350°F (175°C).

1. Prepare Seasoning:

• In a small mixing bowl, combine the onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

1. Season Chicken:

• Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken tenders. Rub the spices into the chicken to ensure they are well coated.

1. Wrap with Bacon:

• Wrap each seasoned chicken tender with a slice of bacon, ensuring that the ends of the bacon are tucked underneath or secured with a toothpick.

1. Sweet and Spicy Coating:

• In a separate bowl, mix the chili powder with the packed brown sugar until well combined.
• Sprinkle this mixture generously over the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres.

1. Cook:

• Place the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on the grill or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper if using the oven.
• Cook for approximately 30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.

1. Rest and Serve:

• Remove the chicken tenders from the grill or oven and let them rest for a few minutes at room temperature.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips:

• Even Cooking: Ensure that the bacon wraps are evenly spaced on the baking sheet or grill to allow for even cooking.
• Toothpicks: Use toothpicks to secure the bacon ends if needed, but remember to remove them before serving.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different seasonings and spices according to your taste preferences. You can try adding a touch of cayenne pepper for extra heat or some honey for additional sweetness.
• Side Dishes: These chicken tenders pair well with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results to retain crispiness.

These Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this easy-to-make dish that brings a gourmet touch to a classic favorite!