Bacon Wrapped Cheesy Ranch Chicken Tenders
A simple yet flavorful dish combining crispy pork bacon, juicy chicken tenders, and melted cheddar cheese seasoned with ranch spices. Perfect for family dinners, game-day snacks, or casual gatherings, this recipe delivers a satisfying mix of savory, smoky, and tangy flavors with minimal effort.
Equipment
- 1 Baking Sheet Line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- 1 Wire Rack Optional but helps crisp the bacon evenly.
- 1 Meat Thermometer For ensuring chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
- Optional Toothpicks To secure bacon during baking.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken tenders Fresh, boneless, skinless; pat dry before use.
- 8-10 slices Thin-cut pork bacon Turkey bacon is an alternative for a leaner option.
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese Monterey Jack can be mixed for creaminess.
- 1 tsp Ranch seasoning For seasoning the chicken or as a dipping sauce.
- 1 tsp Garlic powder Enhances savory flavor.
- 1 tsp Onion powder Adds depth without overpowering other flavors.
- To taste tsp Salt Adjust based on preference.
- To taste tsp Black pepper Freshly ground for better flavor.
- 1 tbsp Smoked paprika for added smokiness. Optional
Optional Additions
- 1 tbsp Brown sugar for a touch of sweetness. Optional
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley for garnish. Optional
Instructions
Step-by-Step Recipe
Prep the Chicken Tenders:
- Rinse chicken tenders under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Remove any visible white tendons with a sharp paring knife.
- Season lightly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional smoked paprika.
Wrap and Secure:
- Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of thin-cut bacon. Place a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese inside the bacon wrap if desired.
- Secure with toothpicks if needed to keep the bacon from unraveling during cooking.
Season and Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place wrapped tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet or wire rack.
- Sprinkle additional seasoning like ranch seasoning or brown sugar over the wrapped tenders.
Bake the Tenders:
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness. Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer—it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- During the last 5 minutes, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the tenders and bake until melted.
Broil for Extra Crispiness:
- For extra crispy bacon, broil the tenders for 2–3 minutes at the end of cooking. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Pair with dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard. Serve alongside roasted vegetables, sweet potato fries, or a fresh salad.
Notes
-
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon soggy.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Variations: Use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a lighter option. Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for different textures and flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the necessary ingredients for making bacon-wrapped chicken tenders with ranch?
- Chicken tenders, pork bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and fresh parsley for garnish.
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Can you provide a step-by-step guide for wrapping chicken tenders in bacon?
- Pat the chicken dry, season lightly, wrap each tender with a slice of bacon, and secure with toothpicks if needed.
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What temperature should bacon-wrapped chicken tenders be cooked to ensure they are fully cooked?
- Chicken tenders should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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How long does it take to cook bacon-wrapped chicken in the oven?
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.
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What side dishes complement bacon-wrapped chicken tenders?
- Roasted vegetables, sweet potato fries, mashed potatoes, or fresh salads work well.
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Are there any variations to the recipe for those with dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free options?
- Use turkey bacon or dairy-free cheese alternatives. Ensure ranch seasoning and other ingredients are gluten-free if needed.
Tips & Tricks
- Flavor Enhancement: Brush tenders with barbecue sauce or buffalo sauce before baking for added depth. Sprinkle smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
- Presentation: Arrange tenders on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with multiple dipping sauces for variety.
- Leftovers: Transform leftover tenders into a wrap by slicing them and layering with lettuce, tomato, and ranch dressing in a tortilla.
Plating and Garnishing
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley or drizzle ranch dressing over the tenders for freshness and color.
- Serving Style: Serve tenders on a large platter with dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard nearby. Add sides like sweet potato fries or a mixed greens salad for balance.
- Sides: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light vinaigrette salad for a complete meal.