Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors. These juicy chicken tenders are wrapped in crispy bacon and coated with a brown sugar glaze, making them perfect for dinner, parties, or a fun appetizer. The brown sugar caramelizes as it cooks, adding a rich, sticky glaze that pairs beautifully with the smoky bacon.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders
- 12 slices bacon
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This helps the bacon crisp up while cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Wrap the Chicken Tenders
Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon, securing the ends if needed with a toothpick. Place each bacon-wrapped chicken tender on the wire rack, leaving space between each piece.
Step 4: Coat with Brown Sugar Mixture
Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the chicken tenders, making sure to coat all sides. Pat the mixture down gently so that it adheres to the bacon and chicken.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)) and the bacon is crispy. If the bacon needs more crisping, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes while keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve
Let the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders cool for a few minutes before serving. Remove any toothpicks before plating, and serve warm.
Cook Notes
- Wire Rack: Using a wire rack ensures the bacon cooks evenly and gets crispy on all sides. If you don’t have a rack, you can place the chicken directly on the lined baking sheet but may need to turn the tenders halfway through cooking.
- Spice Level: For a bit of heat, add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture.
- Bacon: Thin-cut bacon works best, as it crisps up more easily while cooking. Avoid thick-cut bacon, as it may take longer to cook and may not get as crispy.
Variations
1. Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders
Drizzle the chicken tenders with honey mustard before wrapping with bacon for a sweet and tangy flavor combination.
2. Maple Glazed Chicken Tenders
Replace the brown sugar with 1/2 cup maple syrup for a maple-flavored glaze that complements the smoky bacon.
3. BBQ Chicken Tenders
Brush the chicken tenders with BBQ sauce before wrapping in bacon and sprinkle with brown sugar for a smoky and sweet BBQ twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dish: Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
- Dipping Sauce: Pair with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
- Appetizer: Serve as a party appetizer with toothpicks for easy serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make These Chicken Tenders Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders up to 8 hours in advance. Cover them tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of tenders. Cut the chicken breasts into strips to create similar-sized pieces, then follow the recipe as directed.
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are an irresistible combination of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors that are sure to be a hit at any gathering or dinner. Whether served as an appetizer, a snack, or part of a main course, these chicken tenders are always a crowd-pleaser. Try this easy recipe, and watch as everyone comes back for seconds!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
