Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders

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Introduction

Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders are a deliciously savory dish that pairs tender, juicy chicken with the smoky, crispy goodness of turkey bacon. This easy-to-make, flavorful recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or meal prep. The lean turkey bacon adds a healthier twist while still delivering the familiar crunch and flavor that bacon lovers crave. Whether you’re looking for a simple dinner or a dish to impress your guests, these turkey bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

I remember the first time I made these for a casual family dinner. The combination of tender chicken and crispy turkey bacon was a hit, and everyone loved the healthier twist on a classic bacon-wrapped dish. What’s great about these tenders is how versatile they are—you can season them with a variety of spices or pair them with different dipping sauces to match your mood. Whether it’s a tangy barbecue sauce, a creamy ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo, the options are endless.

These turkey bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are surprisingly simple to make, too. With just a few basic ingredients and a little time in the oven, you can enjoy this flavorful dish in no time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests at a gathering, these tenders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Perfect for:

  • Weekend lunch
  • Appetizers
  • Meal prep
  • Low-carb meals
  • Bacon lovers
  • Family gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders will become your go-to recipe:

  • Healthy Twist on Bacon: Using turkey bacon offers a leaner alternative while still keeping that irresistible smoky flavor and crispy texture.
  • Quick and Easy: This recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy nights.
  • Juicy Chicken Tenders: The chicken stays moist and tender while being wrapped in crispy bacon, creating the perfect combination of textures.
  • Flavorful Seasoning: The chicken is seasoned to perfection with a simple yet delicious blend of spices, elevating the flavors without being overwhelming.
  • Kid-Friendly: The bacon and chicken combo is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it great for family meals.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30-40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 2g, Fat: 14g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders:

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces)
  • 8 slices turkey bacon
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or cooking spray)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dipping Sauce (optional):

  • ½ cup ranch dressing or barbecue sauce

Ingredient Highlights

  • Turkey Bacon: Provides a leaner option compared to traditional bacon, while still delivering a smoky, crispy finish.
  • Chicken Tenders: Naturally juicy and tender, these are a great option for a quick, protein-packed meal.
  • Smoked Paprika: Adds a warm, smoky depth to the dish, enhancing the bacon’s flavor.
  • Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: Offer savory, aromatic flavors that complement the chicken perfectly.
  • Olive Oil: Helps crisp up the turkey bacon while keeping the chicken moist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders:

Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Season the chicken tenders evenly with this spice mix on both sides.

Wrap the Chicken with Turkey Bacon:

  1. Wrap the Chicken: Take one slice of turkey bacon and wrap it around each chicken tender. If needed, secure the bacon with a toothpick.
  2. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the wrapped chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out evenly to allow the bacon to crisp up.

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Cook in the Oven: Drizzle or spray the chicken with olive oil, then bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C) and the turkey bacon is crispy.
  2. Check for Crispiness: If the bacon is not crispy enough, you can broil the tenders for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Serve and Garnish:

  1. Remove from Oven and Serve: Once the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through, remove from the oven. Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or barbecue sauce, and enjoy!

How to Serve

  • With a Side Salad: Pair these bacon-wrapped chicken tenders with a fresh, crunchy salad for a balanced meal.
  • As an Appetizer: These tenders make for a crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties or gatherings.
  • With Veggies: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or sweet potatoes for a wholesome meal.
  • With Rice or Potatoes: Enjoy with a side of steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower rice for a more filling dish.
  • For Meal Prep: These tenders are great for meal prepping, so you can enjoy them throughout the week with a variety of sides.

Additional Tips

  • Crispier Bacon: If you prefer extra crispy bacon, place the chicken tenders on a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow air circulation around the bacon.
  • Flavor Variations: You can experiment with different spices like chili powder or cumin for a more bold flavor.
  • Alternative to Toothpicks: If you prefer not to use toothpicks, you can also secure the bacon with a small piece of kitchen twine.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time and refrigerate them before cooking for a quicker meal.

Recipe Variations

  1. BBQ Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
  2. Cheddar Stuffed Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
  3. Spicy Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
  4. Honey Mustard Dipped Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
  5. Garlic Parmesan Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
  6. Buffalo Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
  7. Herb-Crusted Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
  8. Low-Carb Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
  9. Crispy Baked Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
  10. Zesty Lemon Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: You can freeze the turkey bacon-wrapped chicken tenders before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. To cook from frozen, bake at 400°F for 30-35 minutes.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Special Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Toothpicks or kitchen twine (optional)
  • Cooking spray or olive oil
  • Meat thermometer

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon? Yes, regular bacon will work but will have a higher fat content.
  2. Can I make this recipe on the grill? Yes, grill the bacon-wrapped chicken over medium heat, flipping as needed until crispy.
  3. Can I prepare these in advance? Yes, you can prep the chicken and bacon, then store it in the fridge until ready to bake.
  4. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders? Yes, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they cook through.
  5. Can I make these with turkey breast instead of chicken? Yes, turkey breast works well in this recipe too.

Conclusion

These Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders are a flavorful, healthier twist on the classic bacon-wrapped chicken. With a crispy, smoky exterior and juicy, tender chicken inside, this dish is both satisfying and lighter than the traditional version. Whether you’re preparing an easy weeknight dinner, a savory appetizer, or a meal prep favorite, these chicken tenders will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Simple to make and packed with flavor, these tenders are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the smoky crunch of the turkey bacon paired with the tender chicken for a meal that’s both indulgent and guilt-free.

I’d love to see how your Turkey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!

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