Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Name: Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless chicken tenders; ½ pound thick-cut bacon; ½ cup packed brown sugar; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for greasing

Posted on February 11, 2025

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Have you ever wondered how to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare? Introducing the mouthwatering Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders! Imagine the sweet aroma of brown sugar mingling with the savory scent of crispy bacon filling your kitchen. This dish promises a delightful symphony of flavors that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Unforgettable Flavor Combination: The unique blend of crispy bacon and rich brown sugar creates a flavor experience that’s both sweet and savory. Each bite is bursting with taste, making it hard to resist going back for more.

Quick and Easy Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up these chicken tenders from start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, this recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Chicken Tenders: Use about 1 pound of boneless chicken tenders for juicy bites that cook quickly.
Bacon Strips: A half-pound of thick-cut bacon adds incredible crunch and flavor contrast.
Brown Sugar: About half a cup of packed brown sugar enhances the sweetness that balances the savory elements.
Garlic Powder: One teaspoon of garlic powder infuses depth into the flavor profile without overpowering other ingredients.
Paprika: A teaspoon of paprika gives a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the finished dish.
Salt and Pepper: Season with salt and pepper according to taste; these staples enhance all flavors present in the dish.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps ensure even cooking while keeping everything moist.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken tenders cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispiness.

Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray or olive oil.

Wrap Chicken with Bacon: Take each chicken tender and wrap one strip of bacon around it securely. Place the wrapped tenders onto the prepared baking sheet.

Mix Your Seasoning Blend: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed; this will coat your chicken perfectly.

Coat the Wrapped Tenders: Generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture over each bacon-wrapped tender on both sides. Make sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.

Bake Until Crispy: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crispy and chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining glaze for an extra flavor boost.

Serving and storing

Don’t Overcrowd Your Baking Sheet: Give each tender enough space on the baking sheet so they cook evenly without steaming each other. This ensures every piece gets nice and crispy.

Add Extra Spice if Desired: For those who enjoy heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to your seasoning blend. This will add an exciting kick!

Use an Instant-Read Thermometer : To make sure your chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out, use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness at 165°F (75°C).

Complement your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders with some grilled corn on the cob brushed lightly with butter. The smoky flavor from grilling adds depth to your meal while maintaining that perfect summer vibe. This combination will surely impress at any dinner table or backyard barbecue.

FAQs

What is the best way to store leftover Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?

To store leftover Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days when stored properly. Reheat in an oven set at 350°F until warmed through to maintain their crispy texture.

Can I make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders ahead of time! Marinate the chicken tenders in bacon and brown sugar mixture beforehand and keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey tenders if you prefer. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

What dipping sauces pair well with Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?

Several dipping sauces can enhance your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders experience! Consider serving them with ranch dressing, honey mustard sauce, or even BBQ sauce for those who enjoy smoky flavors.