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Crispy Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders

crispy air fryer bacon-wrapped chicken tenders - featured image
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These crispy air fryer bacon-wrapped chicken tenders deliver a juicy, flavorful punch with a perfect balance of smoky crispiness and tender chicken. Quick and easy to make, they are perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound chicken tenders, trimmed and patted dry
  • 8 slices bacon, thin or regular cut
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels and place in a mixing bowl.
  2. Drizzle olive oil over tenders. Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and optional cayenne pepper. Toss well to coat evenly and let sit for 5 minutes.
  3. Wrap each chicken tender tightly with a slice of bacon, overlapping ends underneath. Use toothpicks if needed to secure.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  5. Place bacon-wrapped tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer without touching.
  6. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping tenders at the 6-minute mark to crisp bacon evenly. Cook until bacon is golden and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
  7. Let tenders rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
  8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo.

Notes

Patting chicken dry is essential for crispy bacon. Flip tenders halfway through cooking for even crisping. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. If bacon isn’t crispy enough, air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes. Cook in batches if air fryer basket is small. For lower fat, substitute turkey bacon. This recipe is naturally gluten-free but check bacon brand to confirm.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer, bacon-wrapped, chicken tenders, crispy, quick recipe, easy dinner, low-carb, keto, gluten-free

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/crispy-air-fryer-bacon-wrapped-chicken-tenders-easy-recipe-for-juicy-flavor/