Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: A Sweet and Savory Delight for Dinner

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delightful fusion of savory and sweet that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together the crispy goodness of bacon and the caramelized sweetness of brown sugar, creating a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. Originating from the heart of American cuisine, these chicken tenders have become a favorite in many households, celebrated for their simplicity and flavor.

People love Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders for their irresistible taste and texture. The crispy bacon envelops tender chicken, while the brown sugar glaze adds a rich sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these tenders are sure to impress. Plus, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that is bound to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 pound bacon, cut in half
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken Tenders

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken tenders will cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture. 2. **Prepare the Chicken**: Rinse the chicken tenders under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the seasoning stick better to the chicken. 3. **Make the Seasoning Mix**: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. The brown sugar will give the chicken a sweet caramelized crust, while the spices add depth of flavor. 4. **Coat the Chicken**: Take each chicken tender and coat it generously with the brown sugar seasoning mix. Make sure to cover all sides for maximum flavor. I like to use my hands for this step; it’s messy but effective!

Wrapping the Chicken in Bacon

5. **Prepare the Bacon**: Take your halved bacon strips and wrap each seasoned chicken tender with a piece of bacon. Start at one end of the tender and spiral the bacon around until the entire piece is covered. Secure the ends of the bacon with a toothpick if necessary. This not only keeps the bacon in place but also adds a fun presentation. 6. **Arrange on a Baking Sheet**: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on the sheet, making sure they are spaced out evenly. This allows the heat to circulate and helps them cook evenly.

Cooking the Chicken Tenders

7. **Drizzle with Olive Oil**: Lightly drizzle the olive oil over the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders. This will help the bacon crisp up nicely in the oven. 8. **Bake the Chicken**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken tenders. You want the bacon to be crispy and the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). 9. **Broil for Extra Crispiness**: If you want an extra crispy finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them during this time to prevent burning. The bacon should be beautifully browned and crispy.

Assembling and Serving

10. **Remove from Oven**: Once the chicken tenders are done, carefully remove them from the oven. Let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken tender and juicy. 11. **Garnish**: Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the chicken tenders for a pop of color and freshness. It also adds a nice herbal note that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar. 12. **Serve**: Arrange the bacon brown sugar chicken tenders on a serving platter. They can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or even as part of a game day spread. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard for an extra flavor boost.

Tips for Success

– **Choose Quality Bacon**: The type of bacon you use can make a big difference. I recommend using thick-cut bacon for a heartier bite and better texture. – **Experiment with Spices**: Feel free to adjust the spices in the seasoning mix to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give it a nice kick if you like some heat. – **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time. Just wrap them in bacon and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This is perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests.

Storage and Reheating

13. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3

Conclusion:

In summary, these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game. The combination of crispy bacon, sweet brown sugar, and tender chicken creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish, a party appetizer, or a fun family meal, these tenders are sure to impress. For a delightful twist, consider pairing them with a side of creamy coleslaw or a fresh garden salad to balance the sweetness. You can also experiment with different spices or add a touch of heat with some cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a little kick. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your taste, making it a perfect fit for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the joy of cooking together! Trust me, these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders will quickly become a favorite in your household, just as they have in mine. Happy cooking! Print