Keto Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders with BBQ Sauce

Prep: 15 minCook: 35 min4 servingsmediumAmerican
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders with BBQ Sauce

Juicy chicken tenders wrapped in crispy bacon and glazed with tangy BBQ sauce create an irresistible combination of smoky, savory flavors. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of paprika, garlic, and onion powder before being wrapped in bacon, then baked until crispy and finished under the broiler for extra caramelization. Perfect for game day gatherings, family dinners, or any time you want to impress with minimal effort. The bacon keeps the chicken incredibly moist while adding rich, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy BBQ glaze.

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 2 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless, sliced into strips
    chicken thighs1:1

    More flavorful and forgiving

    Full guide →
  • 8 bacon strips, halved
    turkey bacon1:1lower-fat

    Less crispy but healthier option

    Full guide →
  • ½ cup homemade BBQ sauce
    store-bought BBQ sauce1:1

    Works equally well

  • ½ tbsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • sea salt
  • freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 400 F

  2. 2

    Combine paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl and season to taste

  3. 3

    Season chicken strips with the spice mixture

  4. 4

    Wrap each chicken strip with a bacon slice

  5. 5

    Place on a baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, turning at the halfway point

  6. 6

    Brush the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders generously with BBQ sauce

  7. 7

    Set oven to broil and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side

  8. 8

    Serve with additional BBQ sauce

Tips

Tip 1

Use thick-cut bacon for better wrapping and crispier results that won't overcook while the chicken finishes

Tip 2

Secure bacon with toothpicks if needed to prevent unwrapping during cooking

Tip 3

Let chicken rest 5 minutes after broiling to allow juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate for up to 3 days in airtight container

Make Ahead

Can wrap chicken up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking

Serve With

Serve immediately while bacon is crispy with extra BBQ sauce for dipping

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and proper bacon crisping

Watch

Turn tenders at halfway point to prevent bacon from burning on one side

Substitutions

homemade BBQ sauce
store-bought BBQ sauce1:1

Works equally well

chicken breasts
chicken thighs1:1

More flavorful and forgiving

Full guide →
bacon
turkey bacon1:1lower-fat

Less crispy but healthier option

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning to ensure proper bacon adhesion and even cooking.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Internal temperature should reach 165°F and juices should run clear when pierced with a knife.

Can I make these on the grill?

Yes, cook over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, turning frequently to prevent bacon from burning.