Barbecue Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
These Barbecue Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders are a warm, smoky, and utterly comforting dish, making them a family favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken tenders — trimmed and patted dry The natural shape makes wrapping easy.
- 12 slices bacon — regular or turkey bacon for a lighter version
- 1 cup barbecue sauce — choose smoky, sweet, or spicy Depending on your mood.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps the bacon crisp and adds a glossy finish.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Deepens the barbecue flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder For savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Or to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Or to taste.
- Toothpicks To secure the bacon if needed.
Substitutions
- Use thin-cut pancetta for a more European twist
- Swap smoked paprika for chipotle powder for heat
- Swap barbecue sauce for a honey-mustard glaze for a sweeter profile
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 425°F (or preheat your air fryer to 400°F). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Season the chicken tenders with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spices in so each tender looks kissed with color.
- Cut bacon slices in half lengthwise if they are large. Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon, overlapping slightly, and secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Arrange the wrapped tenders on the rack and brush lightly with barbecue sauce.
Cooking
- Bake for 12 minutes, then brush again and return to the oven for another 8 to 12 minutes until bacon is crispy and chicken reaches 165°F.
- For an air fryer, cook in batches for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Let the tenders rest for 3 minutes, brush with a final glaze of barbecue sauce, and serve warm.
Notes
Use a wire rack for even crispness and do not skip resting the chicken to redistribute juices. Mix sriracha into barbecue sauce for a spicy-sweet kick.