Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders (Air Fryer or Baked)
These delicious bacon-wrapped chicken tenders can be cooked in an air fryer for a quick and crispy meal or baked in the oven for perfectly cooked results. They are low-carb, healthy, and packed with flavor!
Equipment
- Small Bowl
- Large Bowl
- Tongs
- Air Fryer (optional)
- Baking sheet (optional)
- Foil (optional)
Ingredients
Seasoning Blend
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp onion powder
Main Ingredients
- 8-10 chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into tender-sized pieces
- 8-10 slices regular-cut bacon not thick-cut
Instructions
- 1. Craft Your Seasoning: In a small bowl, effortlessly combine the kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, and onion powder. This blend is key to a burst of delicious flavor!
- 2. Season the Chicken: Place your chicken tenders (or prepared chicken breast pieces) into a large bowl. Evenly sprinkle the homemade seasoning mix over the chicken, then gently toss with tongs to ensure every tender is beautifully coated.
- 3. Wrap with Bacon: Take one seasoned chicken tender and a slice of regular-cut bacon. Carefully wrap the bacon around the chicken from end to end. Continue this simple process with all remaining chicken and bacon, placing them aside as you go.
- 4. Air Fryer Method (Quick & Crispy): Arrange the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders in your air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd them for optimal crispiness. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, making sure to flip them halfway through. Cook until the bacon is delightfully crisp and the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- 5. Oven Baked Method (Perfectly Cooked): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). For super easy cleanup, line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Place the bacon-wrapped tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the center of the oven for 15 minutes. For that irresistible extra-crispy bacon, carefully move the baking sheet under the broiler (set to low) for a few minutes per side. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, broiling until the bacon is golden and crisp, and the chicken's internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
- 6. Serve & Savor: Once cooked to perfection, these juicy, healthy chicken tenders are ready to be enjoyed! Pair them with your favorite light dipping sauce like sugar-free BBQ sauce, a low-carb ranch, or a healthy honey mustard.
Notes
Choose either the Air Fryer or Oven Baked method for cooking. Both will yield delicious results!
Nutrition Information (per serving):
Calories: 194
Total Carbs: 0g
Net Carbs: 0g
Fats: 7g
Protein: 31g
Calories: 194
Total Carbs: 0g
Net Carbs: 0g
Fats: 7g
Protein: 31g
