Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders
This recipe delivers savory bacon-wrapped chicken tenders, elevated by fresh sage. It's a straightforward dish, perfect for a quick, low-carb main course or appetizer, offering a delightful blend of crispy bacon and tender, flavorful chicken.
Equipment
- 1 Baking Sheet
- 1 Parchment Paper
- 1 Tongs For handling and turning
- 1 Small Bowl For olive oil
- 1 Pastry Brush Optional, for olive oil
Ingredients
Main
- 8 fresh sage leaves
- 8 chicken tenders about 1 1/4 pounds
- 8 slices bacon
- 1/2 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Pat the chicken tenders completely dry with paper towels; this is crucial for crispy bacon.
- Place one fresh sage leaf on top of each chicken tender.
- Carefully wrap each chicken tender, with its sage leaf, tightly with one slice of bacon, ensuring the bacon is secure.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly brush or drizzle the 1/2 teaspoon of extra-virgin olive oil over the bacon-wrapped tenders.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If desired, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes to achieve extra-crispy bacon, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle.
Notes
Achieving crispy bacon and perfectly cooked chicken is key. Pat the chicken tenders thoroughly dry before wrapping; this helps the bacon crisp up rather than steam. Place the sage leaf directly on the chicken before wrapping, ensuring its aromatic oils infuse the chicken as it cooks. If the bacon isn't crisping to your liking, a quick minute or two under the broiler at the end can help, but watch closely to prevent burning. Always ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Resting the tenders briefly after baking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent bite. Consider a sprinkle of smoked paprika before baking for an extra layer of flavor.