These irresistible bacon-wrapped chicken tenders barely last a minute out of the oven—they’re juicy, flavorful, and undeniably addictive. Perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, this recipe combines tender chicken, smoky bacon, and a bold spice blend to create a satisfying dish ideal for appetizers, dinner, or meal prep. Each bite delivers savory richness, crisp texture, and simple comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s low-carb, high-protein, and incredibly easy to prepare. The bacon crisps beautifully as it cooks, keeping the chicken moist and tender on the inside. The spice rub adds smoky warmth and aromatic depth, making these tenders an instant family favorite. Whether served hot from the oven or packed for lunch, they always disappear fast.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 8 slices bacon
Spice Mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Additional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for quick and easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Spice Rub
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix until fully blended.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Place the chicken tenders in a bowl or on a plate. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle the spice mixture evenly on all sides. Toss or rub gently to coat each piece thoroughly.
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
Take one slice of bacon and wrap it around each chicken tender, spiraling from end to end. If needed, secure the ends using toothpicks or small rosemary sprigs for added aroma.
Step 5: Bake the Tenders
Arrange the bacon-wrapped tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For extra crispiness, broil for the last 1–2 minutes.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in tender, flavorful bites. Serve hot and enjoy every savory, smoky piece.
Tips for the Best Results
Use chicken breasts sliced into strips if you don’t have tenders—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Brush the tenders with low-carb BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes for a sweet and smoky glaze.
Experiment with spices such as cayenne, onion powder, or Italian seasoning for added variation.
Variations
Try turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Wrap the tenders with jalapeño slices underneath the bacon for a spicy kick.
Add a sprinkle of parmesan before baking for an extra savory crust.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Freeze uncooked wrapped tenders for a quick future meal—bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a low-carb mustard dip.
Pair with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or cauliflower mash for a complete meal.
FAQs
Can I cook these in the air fryer?
Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I use thick-cut bacon?
You can, but it may require a longer cooking time to crisp properly.
Do I need to marinate the chicken?
Not necessary—the spice rub and bacon add plenty of flavor.
Conclusion
These low-carb bacon-wrapped chicken tenders are the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and texture. Crispy, juicy, and bursting with smoky goodness, they’ll quickly become a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or guilt-free snacking.