Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Are you ready to indulge in a savory delight that will tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than these Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders! This recipe combines the succulence of tender chicken with the smoky richness of bacon and the gooey goodness of melted cheese. Perfect for a satisfying meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these chicken tenders are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 6-8 chicken tenders
- 6-8 slices of bacon
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onion
- 1 cup shredded Monterey cheddar cheese
- Tony Chachere’s Cajun seasoning (or a Cajun seasoning of your choice)
Directions:
- Heat your Foreman Grill or prepare for pan-frying.
- Generously sprinkle Cajun seasoning on both sides of the chicken tenders.
- Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon.
- Grill the chicken on the Foreman Grill for 4 minutes, or pan-fry for 4 minutes on each side.
- In a separate pan, melt the butter and sauté the onion and bell pepper until they are tender.
- Place the chicken on top of the sautéed vegetables in the pan.
- Cover and cook over medium/low heat for 20 minutes.
- Carefully uncover the pan and sprinkle the shredded Monterey cheddar cheese over the chicken.
- Cover again and cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and envelop the chicken in its creamy embrace.
- Once done, sprinkle the dish with chopped green onions for a fresh burst of flavor.
Tips:
- Ensure that the bacon is wrapped securely around each chicken tender to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.
- Adjust the level of Cajun seasoning according to your personal preference for spiciness.
- Keep an eye on the chicken while cooking to avoid overcooking and ensure it remains juicy and tender.
- For an extra crispy texture, you can broil the chicken for a few minutes after adding the cheese, but be cautious not to burn it.
Conclusion:
With its irresistible combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, sautéed vegetables, and melted cheese, these Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders are guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Whether served as a main course alongside your favorite sides or presented as an appetizer at your next gathering, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression. Try it out and savor the delectable flavors that come together in every mouthwatering bite!
- Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! You can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey bacon may have a slightly different texture and flavor compared to traditional bacon, but it will still add a delicious smoky element to the dish. - Can I prepare these chicken tenders in advance?
Yes, you can partially prepare these chicken tenders in advance by wrapping them with bacon and seasoning them ahead of time. However, it’s best to cook them just before serving to ensure they are fresh, hot, and juicy. You can also pre-cook the bacon slightly to make it easier to wrap around the chicken tenders. - What can I serve with these Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders?
These chicken tenders pair well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a crisp garden salad. You can also serve them with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard for added flavor. - Can I bake these chicken tenders in the oven instead of grilling or pan-frying them?
Yes, you can bake these chicken tenders in the oven if you prefer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the wrapped chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. You can then follow the remaining steps of the recipe to sauté the vegetables, add the cheese, and finish cooking until melted and bubbly.