Barbecue Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders

Barbecue Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders: A Weeknight Winner

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework help, and the never-ending to-do list. That's why I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are both quick and impressive, and these Barbecue Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders fit the bill perfectly. They're ready in under an hour, and the combination of sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and tender chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for the pickiest eaters in the family.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. There's no complicated chopping or intricate techniques required; it's all about combining readily available ingredients in a way that maximizes flavor. The bacon adds a salty, smoky crunch that perfectly complements the sweetness of the barbecue sauce. The chili powder adds a subtle hint of warmth, balancing out the richness of the bacon and chicken. And let's not forget the brown sugar – a secret ingredient that helps caramelize the sauce, creating a beautifully glazed finish.

I've experimented with different types of barbecue sauce, and while I love Stubbs Original, I encourage you to find one that best suits your taste preferences. Just make sure to check the sugar content if you're watching your intake. I often opt for lower-sugar varieties to keep the meal healthier without sacrificing flavor. The key is to find a balance – a sauce that's flavorful but not overly sweet.

The prep time is minimal, mostly involving wrapping each chicken tender with a strip of bacon. This is a great task to get the kids involved in, turning meal preparation into a fun family activity. Once the tenders are assembled, it's simply a matter of baking and broiling until the bacon is perfectly crisp and the chicken is cooked through. I recommend using a baking sheet with a rack to ensure even cooking and prevent the bacon from becoming soggy.

This recipe is remarkably versatile. You can easily adjust the spices to suit your taste, adding a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick. Feel free to experiment with different types of bacon too; thick-cut bacon would certainly add an extra layer of indulgence. Serve these delicious tenders with your favorite sides – a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or some crispy fries would all complement them beautifully.

Beyond weeknight dinners, these Barbecue Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders are perfect for game day gatherings, casual get-togethers, or even a quick and easy lunch. Their portability makes them ideal for packing in lunchboxes or taking to picnics. The combination of flavors is so addictive, they’re guaranteed to be a hit wherever you serve them.

So, the next time you're looking for a delicious and easy weeknight meal, give these Barbecue Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders a try. They’re a surefire way to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The satisfaction of creating a simple yet flavorful meal, while juggling the demands of daily life, is a reward in itself. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Sweet and smoky: Experiment with different types of barbecue sauce to find your perfect flavor.
• Herb it up: Add some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the brown sugar and chili powder mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make it a meal: Serve with your favorite sides, such as a salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
• Prep ahead: Wrap the chicken tenders with bacon ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Step-by-step

• Pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees.
• Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and top with a cooking rack.
• Wrap each chicken tender in a piece of bacon.
• Use a pastry brush to brush all sides of each wrapped tender with barbecue sauce and place them on the rack on the baking sheet.
• Combine the brown sugar and chili powder in a small dish and stir until mixed.
• Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken tenders.
• Bake for 30 minutes.
• Remove from the oven.
• Turn on your broiler (make sure your oven rack is in the appropriate position, in my oven this is toward the top) and return the tenders to the oven.
• Broil for about 2 minutes until the bacon is crisp.