Grilled Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders Recipe

Chicken tenders: These are the tenderloin part of the chicken, known for their tenderness and quick cooking time.

Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory flavor and helps keep the chicken moist while grilling.

Garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor that complements the chicken and bacon.

Paprika: Adds a mild, sweet pepper flavor and a beautiful color to the chicken.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the seasoning.

To ensure the bacon stays securely wrapped around the chicken tenders, use toothpicks to hold the ends in place. Soak the toothpicks in water for about 30 minutes before using them to prevent them from burning on the grill. This will help maintain the integrity of the bacon wrap and ensure even cooking.

• chicken tenders - Substitute with turkey breast strips: Turkey breast strips have a similar texture and can be easily cut into tender-sized pieces.

• bacon - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto is a thinly sliced cured ham that provides a similar salty and savory flavor.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder offers a different but complementary flavor that can enhance the dish.

• paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder adds a bit more heat and complexity, making it a good alternative.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.

• Allow the grilled bacon wrapped chicken tenders to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the bacon soggy.

• Place the cooled chicken tenders in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.

• To freeze, arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen solid, transfer the chicken tenders to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken tenders in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This helps maintain the crispiness of the bacon.

• For a quick reheat, use a microwave, but note that the bacon may not be as crispy. Alternatively, use a skillet over medium heat to reheat and crisp up the bacon.

• Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain the best texture and flavor of the chicken tenders.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the grilled bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the bacon from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method ensures the chicken remains juicy while the bacon stays crispy.

• Microwave Method: Place the chicken tenders on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Be cautious as the bacon might not stay as crispy, but this is a quick and convenient method.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Place the chicken tenders in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is warmed through and the bacon is crispy.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the bacon while reheating the chicken thoroughly.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Wrap the chicken tenders in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place them on the grill and heat for about 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until warmed through. This method can help retain the smoky flavor of the original grilled chicken.

• Grill: Used to cook the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders to perfection, giving them a smoky flavor and crispy texture.

• Tongs: Essential for flipping the chicken tenders on the grill without piercing the meat, ensuring even cooking.

• Meat thermometer: Helps to check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.

• Cutting board: Provides a clean surface to season the chicken tenders and wrap them with bacon.

• Knife: Used to trim any excess fat from the bacon or to cut the chicken tenders if needed.

• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper for consistent seasoning.

• Plate: Used to hold the seasoned chicken tenders before wrapping them with bacon and to rest the cooked tenders after grilling.

• Paper towels: Handy for patting the chicken tenders dry before seasoning and for blotting any excess grease from the cooked bacon.

Pre-season the chicken: Season the chicken tenders the night before and store them in the fridge to save time on prep.

Use pre-cooked bacon: Opt for pre-cooked bacon to cut down on grilling time.

Batch wrap: Wrap all the chicken tenders with bacon at once before heading to the grill.

Grill prep: Preheat the grill while you wrap the chicken tenders to streamline the process.

Resting time: Let the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders rest for a few minutes after grilling to ensure juices redistribute evenly.