Barbecue Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Introduction
There are smells that take you back: the sweet hiss of barbecue sauce hitting hot bacon, the warm, salty perfume of crisped edges, and the little cheering sounds around the dinner table. That moment—when you lift a perfectly sticky, savory bite and everyone’s eyes light up—is why I make Barbecue Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders on repeat. It is comfort food with a bit of showmanship: quick dinner idea that feels like a celebration.
Some nights I pair these with a crunchy salad, other nights I lean into indulgence with fries and extra sauce. If you love tender-coated chicken, you might also enjoy this baked pretzel crusted chicken tenders recipe, which gives a completely different but equally fun crunch to the same weeknight ritual.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It hits every comfort note: smoky, sweet, and salty in a single bite—pure comforting food.
- Family favorite status: kids and grown-ups alike fight over the last one.
- Fast payoff: an easy recipe that comes together quickly, making it a reliable quick dinner idea.
- Versatile: scale it up for a festive meal or keep it simple for a cozy weeknight.
- Healthier options are available: swap turkey bacon or leaner chicken for a healthier option without losing flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders – naturally lean and quick-cooking.
- 10 slices bacon – regular or turkey bacon for a lighter twist; use thick-cut for extra crisp.
- 1 cup barbecue sauce – choose your favorite smoky or sweet variety.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – helps the bacon crisp and adds gloss.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – deepens that barbecue note.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – for savory depth.
- Salt and black pepper to taste.
- Optional: toothpicks for securing the bacon, chopped parsley for garnish.
Substitutions:
- For a healthier option, use turkey bacon and brush with a low-sugar barbecue sauce.
- For a gluten-free version, check that the barbecue sauce is certified gluten-free.
- If you prefer spice, swap smoked paprika for chipotle powder.
Timing
- Prep time: 15 minutes (wrap, season, and sauce).
- Cook time: 20–25 minutes (until bacon is crisp and chicken reaches 165°F).
- Total time: About 35–40 minutes.
Ready faster than takeout, these Barbecue Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders reward minimal effort with maximum flavor—worth every minute.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.
- Season the chicken tenders with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spices in—your kitchen will smell amazing at this point.
- Cut bacon slices in half (or thirds for thinner bacon) and wrap each tender snugly. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Place tenders seam-side down on the baking sheet so they hold together while cooking.
- Brush the tops generously with barbecue sauce. You want a glossy, sticky layer that caramelizes in the oven.
- Bake for 12 minutes, then baste with more sauce and turn the tenders. Bake another 8–12 minutes until the bacon is crisp and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
- For extra crispness, place under a broiler for 1–2 minutes—watch closely so the sugar in the sauce does not burn.
- Let rest for 3–5 minutes, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.
If you like bold flavors, try pairing this method with the tang of buffalo chicken tenders for another party-perfect idea.
Tips and Variations
- Make them sweet and spicy: mix a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar into the barbecue sauce and a pinch of cayenne.
- Low-sugar swap: use a sugar-free barbecue sauce and a touch of smoked paprika for depth.
- Appetizer version: cut the tenders into bite-size pieces before wrapping for finger-friendly bites at your next gathering.
- Make them festive: add a sprinkle of chopped rosemary or use a maple-chipotle barbecue sauce for holiday warmth.
- Healthier alternative: use thin turkey bacon and brush with mustard-thinned barbecue sauce to reduce sugar.
For a creamy tang alongside these tenders, consider dipping sauces inspired by buttermilk classics like those in this buttermilk chicken tenders recipe—they pair beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Picture a rustic board on a breezy weekend: the tenders sit steaming at the center, a bowl of extra barbecue sauce glistens, a pile of sweet potato fries fries nearby, and a crisp coleslaw brightens the plate. These are also perfect for game day with a cold beer, or served with a light arugula salad and grilled vegetables for a balanced meal. For holiday gatherings, serve them alongside roasted corn and a festive slaw to make the table feel abundant and warm.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes to bring back crispness, or use an air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes.
- Freeze cooked tenders on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Make-ahead: wrap tenders and place them on a tray covered in plastic; refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking to save time on a busy evening.
Pro Tips from the Kitchen
- Use cold bacon for easier wrapping; it holds together better around the chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—air circulation equals crisp bacon.
- If using toothpicks, remove them before eating and tell your guests—safety and courtesy matter.
- Brush with more sauce just before serving for that fresh, glossy finish.
FAQs
Q: Can I grill these instead of baking?
A: Yes. Grill over indirect heat with the lid closed, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crisp and chicken reaches 165°F. Watch for flare-ups from the bacon fat.
Q: How do I prevent the bacon from undercooking?
A: Partially cook the bacon in a skillet for 2–3 minutes before wrapping if your bacon is very thick. That gives you a head start without overcooking the chicken.
Q: What dipping sauces go best with this?
A: Classic barbecue sauce, ranch, honey mustard, or a smoky chipotle mayo are all lovely. Offer variety to make it feel like a shared, festive meal.
Q: Are these freezer-friendly?
A: Yes—see the Storage section. Freeze after cooking for best texture on reheating.
Conclusion
Wrapping simple chicken tenders in bacon and slathering them with barbecue sauce turns the ordinary into something memorable—an easy recipe that invites laughter, seconds, and a little happy mess at the table. Whether you make them for a weeknight family favorite or a festive meal for friends, these Barbecue Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders have a way of bringing people together. If you’d like more inspiration and a slightly different spin on the idea, check out this classic take on bacon-wrapped tenders at Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken Tenders – Cooking in the Midwest. Give them a try, share a picture, and let this recipe become one of your cozy traditions.
Barbecue Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.
- Season the chicken tenders with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spices in.
- Cut bacon slices in half (or thirds for thinner bacon) and wrap each tender snugly.
- Secure the bacon with a toothpick if needed and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Brush the tops generously with barbecue sauce.
- Bake for 12 minutes, then baste with more sauce and turn the tenders.
- Bake another 8–12 minutes until the bacon is crisp and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
- For extra crispness, place under a broiler for 1–2 minutes—watch closely.
- Let rest for 3–5 minutes, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.
