Grilled Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that requires only four ingredients. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and sweet barbecue sauce creates a delicious meal perfect for grilling season. Whether you’re making this for a family dinner or a summer cookout, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken tenders (approximately 7-8 tenders)
8 slices bacon
4 tbsp barbecue sauce
4 tsp brown sugar

Directions

Preheat the Grill – Set your grill to medium-high heat (approximately 350°F) and spray the grates with non-stick cooking spray or rub them with oil to prevent sticking.
Wrap the Chicken – Take each chicken tender and wrap it with a slice of bacon.
Add Flavor – Brush barbecue sauce onto each bacon-wrapped chicken tender using a basting brush. Then, sprinkle brown sugar on top and gently rub it into the barbecue sauce.
Grill the Chicken – Place the chicken tenders on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Rest and Serve – Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrients

Calories: 358 kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 102mg
Sodium: 604mg
Potassium: 553mg
Sugar: 10g
Vitamin A: 90 IU
Vitamin C: 1mg
Calcium: 17mg
Iron: 1mg

This dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a great choice for a quick and satisfying meal!

The Appeal of Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders

Bacon and chicken have always been a winning combination. The crispy, salty bacon pairs beautifully with the tender, juicy chicken, creating a contrast in texture and a rich depth of flavor. Adding barbecue sauce and brown sugar takes this dish to the next level, introducing a smoky-sweet element that enhances the overall taste.

This recipe works well for various occasions. It can serve as a main dish for dinner, an appetizer for a barbecue, or even a fun party snack. The ease of preparation and quick cooking time make it a stress-free option for anyone looking to whip up something flavorful in no time.

The Importance of Grilling

Grilling adds a unique smoky flavor to the chicken that cannot be replicated by other cooking methods. The high heat caramelizes the sugars in the barbecue sauce, creating a beautifully charred and slightly crispy outer layer. Meanwhile, the bacon keeps the chicken moist and juicy, preventing it from drying out on the grill.

Another advantage of grilling is that it allows excess fat to drip off the bacon while cooking, resulting in a leaner dish without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, grilling is a quick cooking method, meaning you can have these delicious tenders ready in just minutes.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders

While this recipe is straightforward, a few tips can help ensure perfect results every time:

Use Thin-Cut Bacon – Thin bacon wraps more easily around the chicken and crisps up better on the grill. Thick-cut bacon may take longer to cook, leaving the chicken overdone by the time the bacon is fully crispy.
Preheat the Grill – A properly preheated grill ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from sticking to the grates.
Secure the Bacon – If necessary, use toothpicks to secure the bacon around the chicken tenders. This prevents it from unraveling as it cooks.
Monitor the Heat – Cooking over medium-high heat (around 350°F) allows the bacon to become crispy without burning the barbecue sauce or overcooking the chicken.
Check Internal Temperature – Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked while remaining juicy and tender.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ways to customize it:

Spicy Version – Add a touch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the barbecue sauce for a spicier kick.
Honey Mustard Glaze – Swap the barbecue sauce for a honey mustard glaze for a tangy twist.
Cheese-Stuffed Chicken – Add a small slice of cheese inside the chicken before wrapping it with bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
Herb-Infused – Sprinkle fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano on the chicken before wrapping it in bacon to add depth to the taste.
Oven-Baked Option – If grilling is not an option, bake the tenders in an oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning once for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some great pairings to create a complete meal:

Grilled Vegetables – Serve with a side of grilled asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini for a healthy, balanced meal.
Classic Coleslaw – The creamy, tangy flavors of coleslaw contrast beautifully with the smoky sweetness of the chicken.
Corn on the Cob – A summer classic that pairs perfectly with any barbecue dish.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes – A comforting, creamy side dish that complements the crispy bacon and juicy chicken.
Dipping Sauces – Offer a variety of dipping sauces like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or extra barbecue sauce to enhance the flavors.

Health Benefits of This Recipe

While this dish is indulgent, it also provides some great nutritional benefits:

High in Protein – Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and overall health.
Rich in Healthy Fats – Bacon contains healthy fats that can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
Low in Carbohydrates – This recipe is naturally low in carbs, making it suitable for keto or low-carb diets.
Customizable for Healthier Options – Using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon or opting for a sugar-free barbecue sauce can make this dish even healthier.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, they can be easily stored and reheated while maintaining their delicious taste.

Storage: Place the cooked tenders in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap each tender individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To retain the crispy texture, reheat the tenders in an oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use an air fryer for a quicker reheating option.

Conclusion

Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, it’s a great choice for busy weeknights, backyard barbecues, or even meal prep. The combination of smoky bacon, juicy chicken, and caramelized barbecue sauce makes it a dish that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or an appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress. By experimenting with different seasonings, glazes, and sides, you can tailor it to suit your personal taste. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect balance of crispy, juicy, and smoky goodness in every bite!

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