Bacon and chicken are a classic combo, but when you wrap juicy chicken tenders in smoky bacon and season them with a touch of spice and sweetness, magic happens. This recipe creates tender, flavorful chicken bites with a crispy, caramelized bacon exterior that’s perfect for family dinners, parties, or a simple weeknight treat. Easy to prepare, irresistibly delicious, and packed with flavor, these bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are guaranteed to become a household favorite. Each bite delivers a balance of savory, sweet, and smoky notes that makes you reach for more—trust me, they disappear fast.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion powder | 1 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Bacon strips | 10 strips |
| Light brown sugar, packed | 1/3 cup |
| Chicken tenders | 1 lb (about 10 tenders) |
| Italian seasoning | ½ tsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Chili powder | 1 tbsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Salt | ½–1 tsp |
Instructions
-
Prepare the seasoning
Preheat oven or grill to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, combine onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and black pepper. -
Season the chicken
Sprinkle the spice mix evenly over the chicken tenders, rubbing gently to coat all sides. -
Wrap with bacon
Wrap each chicken tender with one strip of bacon, tucking in the ends to secure. -
Add the sweet and spicy touch
Mix chili powder and brown sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the bacon-wrapped tenders, pressing lightly to stick. -
Cook to perfection
Place the tenders on a baking tray or grill. Cook for about 30 minutes, until bacon is crispy and chicken is fully cooked. Allow to rest a few minutes. -
Serve and enjoy
Serve warm and enjoy the perfect harmony of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors.