Barbecue Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Warm, smoky, and indulgent chicken tenders wrapped in crispy bacon and coated with tangy barbecue sauce. A quick dinner ideal for weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken tenders — trimmed and patted dry Choose organic or antibiotic-free for a healthier option.
- 12-16 slices thin-cut bacon One slice per tender, or half a slice for smaller pieces.
- 1 cup barbecue sauce Your favorite brand or homemade; smoky-sweet works beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps the seasoning stick and adds a golden finish.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Amplifies the barbecue feeling.
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder For depth of flavor.
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder Subtle sweetness and savoriness.
- to taste salt and black pepper
- optional wooden skewers or toothpicks Soak skewers for 30 minutes if using in the oven.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil and a wire rack. If using an air fryer, preheat to 400°F.
- In a bowl, toss chicken tenders with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Lay a bacon slice flat and place one chicken tender on the end. Wrap tightly, securing with a toothpick if needed. Repeat with remaining tenders.
- Arrange tenders on the rack so they do not touch and brush each lightly with barbecue sauce.
Cooking
- Bake for 12 minutes, then brush again with sauce and bake another 6–10 minutes until bacon is crispy and chicken reaches 165°F internally. In an air fryer, cook in batches for 10–12 minutes, flipping once and brushing with sauce halfway through.
- Let rest for 3–5 minutes so juices settle.
Notes
For a healthier option, use center-cut bacon and a low-sugar sauce. Store cooled tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.