Description
Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders combine crispy, smoky bacon with gooey melted cheese and tender chicken strips for a flavorful and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 chicken tenders
- 8 slices thin bacon
- 8 slices mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or about 1 cup shredded)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Olive oil or cooking spray, as needed
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken tenders lightly with garlic powder and freshly ground black pepper to create a flavorful foundation.
- Add the Cheese: Place a slice or a small handful of shredded cheese on top of each chicken tender, pressing it slightly so it stays in place.
- Wrap with Bacon: Carefully wrap each cheese-topped chicken tender with a slice of thin bacon, stretching tightly to secure the cheese inside. Use toothpicks if needed to hold the bacon in place.
- Cook Until Crispy: Bake the wrapped tenders on a foil-lined baking sheet at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, or air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes. Cook until the bacon is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Rest and Serve: Let the tenders rest for a few minutes after cooking so the cheese sets slightly, making them easier to enjoy without losing their gooey texture.
Notes
- Choose thin bacon for even crisping and easy wrapping.
- Do not overstuff with cheese to prevent spillage and soggy bacon.
- Secure the bacon ends with toothpicks if necessary to avoid unraveling.
- Air frying crisps bacon quickly and with less mess; baking cooks slower but yields tender chicken.
- Allow tenders to rest before serving to set the cheese properly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes (baking) or 15-20 minutes (air frying)
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tender
- Calories: 180-220 kcal
- Sugar: 0-1 g
- Sodium: 350-450 mg
- Fat: 12-15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4-6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6-8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1-2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 15-18 g
- Cholesterol: 55-70 mg
Keywords: bacon wrapped chicken, cheesy chicken tenders, comfort food, appetizer, gluten free, easy dinner