Tennessee Tenders

These Tennessee Tenders are a delicious twist on classic chicken tenders, making them perfect for any occasion. Wrapped in Turkey Bacon and smoked to perfection, they deliver incredible flavor that will impress your guests or family. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner, these tenders will be a hit with everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The seasoning and Turkey Bacon create a mouthwatering taste that is hard to resist.
• Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal prep time, allowing you to enjoy delicious tenders without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or part of a barbecue spread, these tenders fit any meal plan.
• Healthier Option: Using Turkey Bacon makes this dish lower in fat while still providing that crispy texture we all love.

Tools and Preparation

To make the process smooth and efficient, gather the following tools before starting. Having everything at hand will ensure you enjoy cooking these Tennessee Tenders.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Smoker
• Meat thermometer
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Smoker: Essential for achieving that rich, smoky flavor that elevates your Tennessee Tenders.
• Meat thermometer: Guarantees that your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165 degrees for perfect tenderness.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb Chicken Tenderloins
• 1/2 cup Your favorite rub (check out Chupacabra seasoning link above)
• 1 package thin sliced Turkey Bacon
• 1/2 cup butter, salted
• Wood chips for smoker (I use apple)

How to Make Tennessee Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Coat each side of the chicken tenderloins with your chosen rub. You can use different flavors for each side for added zest.

Step 2: Wrap with Turkey Bacon

1. Take a slice of Turkey Bacon and wrap it around each tenderloin securely.

Step 3: Preheat the Smoker

1. Set your smoker to preheat at 300 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4: Smoke the Tenders

1. Place the wrapped chicken tenders on the smoker rack.
2. Add wood chips to the fire for flavor enhancement.

Step 5: Monitor Cooking Temperature

1. Smoke the tenders at a steady temperature between 250-300 degrees.
2. After one hour, flip the tenders to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

1. Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 7: Butter Them Up!

1. Once cooked, remove from smoker and slather them with a generous helping of butter before serving!

Enjoy your flavorful Tennessee Tenders!

How to Serve Tennessee Tenders

Tennessee Tenders are versatile and delicious, making them perfect for various serving occasions. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, these tenderloins wrapped in turkey bacon will be a hit!

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve with a side of mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
• Pair with steamed vegetables to add some color and nutrients to your plate.

Game Day Treat

• Set up a platter with Tennessee Tenders along with dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue for easy snacking.
• Offer sliders using small buns to create fun, bite-sized sandwiches.

Outdoor Barbecue

• Serve on skewers alongside grilled vegetables for an appealing presentation.
• Create a buffet-style setup where guests can build their own wraps using lettuce leaves and toppings.

Festive Gatherings

• Arrange on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs for an elegant touch.
• Include seasonal fruits like melon or pineapple as refreshing accompaniments.

How to Perfect Tennessee Tenders

Getting your Tennessee Tenders just right can take your dish from good to incredible. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Choose quality turkey bacon: Look for thick-cut turkey bacon for better wrapping and flavor.
• Use different rubs: Experiment with various rubs on each side of the tenders to create unique flavor profiles.
• Monitor smoker temperature carefully: Keeping the temperature consistent is key; aim for 250-300 degrees throughout the cooking process.
• Check internal temperature: Always ensure the tenders reach 165 degrees for optimal safety and juiciness.
• Let them rest: Allowing the tenders to rest briefly after smoking helps retain moisture before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Tennessee Tenders

Complementing your Tennessee Tenders with the right side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that pair well:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic flavor enhance any main dish.
2. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and grilled asparagus adds freshness and crunch to your plate.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the savory tenders.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn cooked on the grill brings out its natural flavors, making it a delightful pairing.
5. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans offer a sweet and smoky complement that works well with smoked chicken.
6. Quinoa Salad: A colorful quinoa salad packed with veggies adds healthy grains and vibrant colors to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Tennessee Tenders are a hit, avoid these common pitfalls when preparing the recipe.

• Bold seasoning choices: Using too much or too little rub can overpower or underwhelm the flavors. Measure carefully and taste as you go.
• Bold wrapping technique: If the Turkey Bacon isn’t wrapped snugly around the chicken, it may unravel during cooking. Ensure each tender is fully encased for even cooking.
• Bold temperature errors: Cooking at inconsistent temperatures can lead to uneven doneness. Always preheat your smoker and maintain a steady temperature throughout the process.
• Bold timing issues: Flipping the tenders too early or too late can affect texture and flavor. Stick to the recommended hour before flipping for optimal results.
• Bold butter application: Skipping the butter at the end can result in dry tenders. Slather on a generous amount right before serving for added richness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Tennessee Tenders in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Tennessee Tenders

• Wrap individual tenders in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tennessee Tenders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Tennessee Tenders, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

What are Tennessee Tenders?

Tennessee Tenders are smoked chicken tenderloins wrapped in Turkey Bacon, seasoned with flavorful rubs, creating a delicious dish perfect for any occasion.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef if you prefer a different flavor profile while still keeping the dish delicious.

How do I make Tennessee Tenders spicier?

To add more heat, try using a spicy rub or adding cayenne pepper to your seasoning mix before applying it to the chicken.

What side dishes pair well with Tennessee Tenders?

These tenders go wonderfully with coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Tennessee Tenders are not only flavorful but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can customize them with different seasonings and sides to create your perfect meal. Give this recipe a try; it’s bound to become a favorite!