Indulge in Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders—juicy chicken wrapped in crispy bacon, glazed with sweet brown sugar for an irresistible flavor.

Introduction

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the ultimate sweet and savory treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a fun dinner option, or a delicious snack, these chicken tenders deliver on all fronts. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a caramelized brown sugar glaze creates a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. The sweet brown sugar pairs perfectly with the salty, smoky bacon, while the tender chicken inside remains juicy and flavorful. These chicken tenders are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. Plus, they bake up quickly, making them a great option for busy weeknights or when you need a quick dish for a gathering. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ve got a dish that’s guaranteed to disappear fast!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces)
• 8-10 slices of bacon
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Toothpicks (optional, for securing bacon)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken tenders, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Wrap the Chicken: Wrap each chicken tender tightly with a slice of bacon. If needed, secure the bacon with a toothpick.
4. Coat with Brown Sugar: Roll the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders in any remaining brown sugar mixture, pressing gently to help the sugar adhere to the bacon.
5. Bake: Place the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
6. Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them as is or with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to Prepare

Preparing Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders is quick and straightforward, making them an ideal dish for any occasion. The key to this recipe is in the seasoning—combining brown sugar with smoked paprika and garlic powder gives the chicken tenders a sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor that’s incredibly addictive. Wrapping the chicken in bacon not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist as it bakes. Rolling the bacon-wrapped chicken in additional brown sugar creates a caramelized glaze that’s both visually appealing and delicious. These tenders are best served fresh from the oven, while the bacon is still crispy and the glaze is sticky and sweet.

 Preparation Time

• Active Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Servings

This recipe makes 8-10 chicken tenders, serving approximately 4-5 people as an appetizer or 2-3 as a main course.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders? Yes, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips. Adjust the cooking time if needed, depending on the thickness of the strips.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders ahead and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Bake them just before serving for the best texture.

Q3: Can I use turkey bacon instead? Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a substitute. Keep in mind that turkey bacon may not crisp up as much as pork bacon.

Q4: What dipping sauces go well with these tenders? Honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli are great dipping sauce options that complement the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken tenders.

Q5: How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the bacon crispy.

Conclusion

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a deliciously sweet and savory dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a caramelized brown sugar glaze creates a flavor-packed bite that’s perfect for any occasion. These tenders are easy to make, with minimal prep and a quick bake time, making them a great option for both casual weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a snack, or a main course, these chicken tenders are guaranteed to be a hit. The balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors will have everyone coming back for more, making this recipe one you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.