Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you are searching for a sweet and savory treat that’s irresistibly delicious, then this Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe will become your new favorite go-to. Imagine juicy chicken tenders wrapped in smoky, crispy bacon and coated with a perfect caramelized layer of brown sugar and spices. It’s the kind of dish that satisfies both comfort food cravings and a touch of indulgence, making every bite a delightful experience. The balance of flavors and textures here is simply unforgettable, guaranteed to impress everyone at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, readily available ingredients is the key to whipping up this sensational dish without any fuss. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from bringing depth and sweetness to adding savory notes and that crave-worthy crispiness.

• Chicken tenders: Tender, lean, and quick-cooking, they create the perfect base for this recipe.
• Bacon slices: Smoky, salty, and crispy, bacon wraps around the chicken to lock in flavor and provide crunch.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized, glossy coating on the bacon.
• Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a gentle, savory punch that complements the sugar perfectly.
• Smoked paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Adds subtle smoky heat, enhancing the bacon’s natural flavor.
• Salt (pinch): Balances sweetness and brightens all other flavors.
• Black pepper (pinch): Adds just the right amount of mild spiciness to round out the taste.

How to Make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start your journey with this comforting dish by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for cooking the chicken evenly while rendering the bacon crisp and golden.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Surface

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This little step makes cleanup super simple and ensures your tenders won’t stick as the sugar caramelizes.

Step 3: Mix the Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well blended. This spice mix is the magic dust that brings the signature flavor to this Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe.

Step 4: Wrap Each Tender with Bacon

Take each chicken tender and wrap it tightly with a slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if needed to keep the bacon snug around the meat. This wrapping step locks in juicy goodness while adding that delicious smoky crunch.

Step 5: Coat with the Brown Sugar Mixture

Press each bacon-wrapped tender into the brown sugar blend, coating it completely. This step creates a sticky, caramelized crust that’s irresistible once baked.

Step 6: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Place each coated tender onto your lined baking sheet, making sure they have space in between. Proper spacing helps every piece cook thoroughly and crisp up beautifully.

Step 7: Bake Until Perfect

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the chicken is cooked through. Keep an eye on the color and texture—the bacon should be nicely browned.

Step 8: Broil for Extra Crispiness

For that final touch, turn on the broiler and cook the tenders for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning. This step takes your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe to the next level of crunchy, caramelized perfection.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Remove the tenders from the oven and let them cool slightly. Don’t forget to take out any toothpicks before serving to keep things safe and enjoyable.

How to Serve Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise. Sprinkle some finely chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and a fresh, slightly herbaceous note that balances the sweetness and smokiness.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a crisp green salad. These sides add variety in texture and keep the meal balanced without overpowering the star Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these tenders skewered on sticks for a fun appetizer, or slice them and toss over a bed of mixed greens for a delightful salad topping. You can also offer dipping sauces such as honey mustard or a tangy barbecue sauce to add another layer of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover tenders should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy this Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe beyond the initial meal.

Freezing

If you want to save them longer, wrap the cooked tenders tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. This is a fantastic way to have a quick, savory snack on hand any time.

Reheating

To reheat, bake the tenders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the bacon’s crunch and the caramelized sugar coating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Just slice the chicken breasts into strips about the size of tenders, and follow the same wrapping and coating steps. The cooking time might be slightly longer depending on the thickness.

Is it necessary to use brown sugar?

Brown sugar is essential for that perfect caramelized sweetness and depth of flavor. You could try substituting with coconut sugar for a different but still delicious twist.

Can I make these without wrapping with bacon?

While bacon is a highlight of this recipe, you could bake the tenders coated only with the brown sugar spice mix. The flavor will be different but still tasty.

What’s the best way to make sure the bacon stays wrapped?

Using toothpicks is the easiest method to keep the bacon snug. Wrapping the bacon tightly also helps it stay in place during baking.

Can these be made gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your spices and bacon do not contain any hidden gluten ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Make sure you don’t miss out on trying this incredibly flavorful Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe that combines sweet, savory, smoky, and crispy elements all in one easy dish. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even a tasty finger food at your next gathering. Once you make it, you’ll see why it’s so beloved, and you’ll want to make it again and again. Happy cooking!

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