Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for an easy meal that delivers a flavor explosion with less time in the kitchen, this air fryer bacon-wrapped chicken tenders recipe is just what you need. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or family gatherings, these bacon-wrapped tenders are a guaranteed hit.

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders on a cooling rack

The air fryer ensures crispy bacon on the outside while keeping the chicken juicy inside. Using simple ingredients, this scrumptious recipe comes together quickly and pairs well with your favorite side dish, like green beans or mashed potatoes. Let’s take your chicken tenders recipe to a whole new level with this easy-to-follow method!

Ingredients Needed

  • Chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Tender, juicy, and the perfect size for wrapping in a slice of bacon.
  • Smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smoky depth that enhances the overall taste.
  • Garlic powder – A must-have for an extra kick of flavor.
  • Black pepper – Balances the spices with a hint of heat.
  • Salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and bacon.
  • Bacon – Whether you choose regular bacon or turkey bacon, this is what makes these tenders irresistible!
ingredients for Air Fryer Bacon wrapped chicken tenders
  • Size of the chicken matters! Larger pieces may require longer cooking time, so always check the thickest part with a meat thermometer.
  • Want a flavor boost? Brush with barbecue sauce in the last few minutes of cooking.
  • For a spicy kick, add a little bit of chili powder to the spice mix.
What are some substitutions I can I use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – A juicier alternative to chicken tenderloins.
Turkey bacon – A leaner choice that still delivers great taste.
Brown sugar – Swap for honey to create a sweet and smoky glaze.

What are the storage instructions?

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked tenders in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Reheating: Air fry at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to retain crispiness.

Can I use a different type of bacon?

Yes! You can use turkey bacon or regular bacon, but keep in mind cooking time may vary.

How do I keep the bacon from falling off?

Secure with toothpicks if needed, or wrap the bacon tightly around each chicken strip.

Can I cook these in the oven?

Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders

  1. Mix together the dry seasonings.seasoning in a bowl
  2. Wrap chicken tenders in bacon, folding over any skinny ends of the chicken to cook evenly.chicken tenders wrapped in bacon
  3. Sprinkle seasoning over bacon wrapped tenders.seasoning sprinkled on tenders
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees. Prepare the basket with nonstick cooking spray.
  5. Add the chicken tenders, in batches if needed, and cook for 10 to 15 minutes turning the tender once to cook evenly. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees.chicken tenders on air fryer rack
  6. Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and allow to rest for 10 minutes prior to serving.cooked Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders on rack
  7. Serve with assorted dipping sauces, if desired.Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders on a plate with a dipping sauce
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Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for an easy meal that delivers a flavor explosion with less time in the kitchen, this air fryer bacon-wrapped chicken tenders recipe is just what you need.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients
 

  • 2 pounds skinless chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 12 ounce package bacon

Instructions

  • Mix together the dry seasonings.
  • Wrap chicken tenders in bacon, folding over any skinny ends of the chicken to cook evenly.
  • Sprinkle seasoning over bacon wrapped tenders.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees. Prepare the basket with nonstick cooking spray.
  • Add the chicken tenders, in batches if needed, and cook for 10 to 15 minutes turning the tender once to cook evenly. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
  • Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and allow to rest for 10 minutes prior to serving.
  • Serve with assorted dipping sauces, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 357kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 56mg | Sodium: 854mg | Potassium: 182mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.04g | Vitamin A: 156IU | Vitamin C: 0.01mg | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 0.4mg

Nutritional Disclaimer: Family Fresh Meals is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is only an estimate. We recommend running the ingredients through an online nutritional calculator if you need to verify any information.

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