Keto Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Although there are definitely keto-friendly replacements for flours and breadcrumbs, there are also a number of reason to just skip the breading and make these keto bacon wrapped chicken tenders instead! One obvious reason: they’re delicious! It’s no secret that chicken and bacon go great together. For this recipe in particular, it gives your tenders a crispy exterior while keeping them moist and flavorful on the inside.
Another great reason? These keto bacon wrapped chicken tenders are super easy to make! You get to skip all of the hassle and mess that comes with a breaded version, like dredging and egg washes. Instead, just season the chicken and wrap each tender with a piece of bacon. No frying also means no dealing with a big pan of oil on the stove. Whether you opt to use the air fryer or oven, you will definitely save on clean up.
The bacon and spice mix add a good amount of flavor on their own, but I like to finish these keto bacon wrapped chicken tenders with a quick spicy maple glaze to really make them shine. The sweet and heat really complement the salty bacon and savory spice rub for the perfect combination. Make it a full meal by pairing with your favorite side and dip.
Looking for more keto-friendly finger foods? You might also enjoy:
- Air Fryer Keto Zucchini Fries
- Low Carb Avocado Egg Rolls
- Keto Loaded Zucchini Skins
- Jalapeno Cheddar Keto Cauliflower Tots
- Keto French Toast Sticks
Keto Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders about 12 pieces
- 12 slices bacon
Spice Rub
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
Spicy Maple Glaze (optional)
- 3 tbsp sugar free maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
- In a shallow dish or bowl, combine spice rub ingredients. Separately, combine the maple glaze ingredients if using.
- Season chicken tenders on both sides with spice mix.
- Wrap each chicken tender with one slice of bacon, tucking the ends to secure. Cook according to the air fryer or oven instructions below.
Air Fryer Method
- Air fry bacon wrapped chicken tenders at 400F for 10 minutes. Flip/toss the pieces, and return to air fryer for another 7-10 minutes, or until bacon is crisp and chicken is cooked through.
- Brush tenders with glaze, and finish with a final 3-5 minutes in the air fryer to set.
Oven Method
- Preheat oven to 400F. Prep a baking sheet by lining with foil, and topping with a baking rack.
- Arrange chicken on top of rack, and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until bacon is crisp and chicken is cooked through.
- Brush tenders with glaze if using, and finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes per side to crisp bacon and set glaze.
Notes
- I find that these keto bacon wrapped chicken tenders turn out crispiest in the air fryer, but you can get similar results in the oven if you use a rack and finish under the broiler.
- Storage and Reheating: Store refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave.
- The glaze adds a bit of heat to balance the sweetness of the sugar free maple syrup. Adjust the heat level by using more or less spice.
Nutrition
Delicious