Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delicious combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a caramelized brown sugar glaze. These mouthwatering chicken tenders are easy to make and perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even dinner. The savory bacon and juicy chicken pair perfectly with the sweetness of the brown sugar, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips)
- 12 slices of bacon (thin to medium thickness)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- **Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet if you have one; this helps the bacon crisp up all around.
Step 2: Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to mix the seasonings with the brown sugar.
Step 3: Wrap the Chicken Tenders
- Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon, starting at one end and spiraling the bacon around the chicken. If necessary, secure the bacon with toothpicks to hold it in place.
Step 4: Coat with Brown Sugar
- Roll each bacon-wrapped chicken tender in the brown sugar mixture, pressing gently to make sure the sugar sticks to the bacon. Place the coated tenders on the prepared wire rack or baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken Tenders
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy and caramelized. If the bacon needs more crisping, you can broil the tenders for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to avoid burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Once the chicken tenders are cooked and the bacon is golden brown, remove them from the oven. Let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve with your favorite dipping sauces.
Cook Notes
- Crispy Bacon: Using a wire rack helps the bacon crisp up evenly on all sides. If you don’t have a rack, you can bake the tenders directly on the parchment-lined baking sheet, but be sure to turn them halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Bacon Thickness: Thin to medium-thickness bacon works best for this recipe. Thick-cut bacon may not cook as well, and you may need to increase the baking time if you choose to use it.
- Dipping Sauces: These tenders pair well with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch dressing, or barbecue sauce.
Variations
- Spicy Bacon Chicken Tenders: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brown sugar mixture for an extra kick.
- Maple Bacon Chicken Tenders: For a sweet twist, drizzle the tenders with maple syrup before serving or add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the brown sugar mixture.
- Herbed Chicken Tenders: Add dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the brown sugar mixture for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders a few hours in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and bake them just before serving. If making them ahead, allow them to come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to retain their crispiness.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Simply cut them into strips or wrap them whole with bacon. Keep in mind that the cooking time may increase slightly.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a healthier alternative, but it may not crisp up as much as pork bacon. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as turkey bacon tends to cook faster.
What can I serve with Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
These tenders pair well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. They also make a great appetizer when served with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the ultimate sweet and savory treat. The combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and caramelized brown sugar makes these tenders absolutely irresistible. Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even as a main dish, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy
