Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe

Indulge in the perfect combination of sweet and savory with these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. This recipe combines tender chicken strips wrapped in crispy bacon and coated with a sweet, caramelized brown sugar glaze. These tenders are incredibly easy to prepare and make a delicious appetizer, party snack, or even a main dish. The contrasting flavors of smoky bacon, tender chicken, and the caramelized sweetness make every bite irresistible.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken tenders with a light sprinkle of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This step will infuse a hint of flavor directly into the chicken itself.
2. Prepare the Bacon: Lay the strips of bacon flat on a clean surface. If you’re using large pieces of chicken or thicker bacon, you may want to cut each slice of bacon in half to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Wrap the Chicken with Bacon

1. Wrap the Chicken: Take each seasoned chicken tender and wrap it with one strip of bacon, making sure the ends slightly overlap. Wrap the bacon tightly around the chicken so that it stays in place.
2. Secure with Toothpicks: If needed, secure the bacon in place with a toothpick to prevent it from unraveling during the cooking process.

Step 3: Coat with Brown Sugar Mixture

1. Prepare Brown Sugar Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, and optional chili powder. This mixture will caramelize and create a sticky, flavorful glaze as it bakes.
2. Coat the Wrapped Chicken: Gently roll each bacon-wrapped chicken tender in the brown sugar mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating on all sides. This step is essential for achieving a deliciously caramelized glaze.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken Tenders

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place a wire rack on top to elevate the chicken and allow the bacon fat to drip down, ensuring a crisp texture.
2. Arrange Tenders on Rack: Place each bacon-wrapped tender on the wire rack, leaving enough space between each piece. This will help the heat circulate evenly around the chicken.
3. Bake for 20-25 Minutes: Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the brown sugar has caramelized beautifully.
4. Broil for Extra Crispiness: For added crispiness, turn the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Rest Before Serving: Allow the tenders to rest for a couple of minutes after removing them from the oven. This will help the sugar glaze set slightly.
2. Garnish with Parsley: For a pop of color, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the tenders.
3. Serve with Dipping Sauce: These tenders are delicious on their own but also pair well with honey mustard, ranch, or a spicy dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

1. Thin Bacon Works Best: Thin-cut bacon crisps up more easily than thick-cut, so it’s ideal for wrapping the chicken tenders. Thick bacon can sometimes remain chewy in certain spots.
2. Don’t Skip the Rack: Placing the tenders on a rack allows the bacon to crisp up without sitting in its own grease. This also makes cleanup easier.
3. Avoid Overcrowding: Leave enough space between each tender on the rack. Overcrowding can cause the bacon to steam rather than crisp.
4. Broiling is Key: Broiling for the last few minutes helps achieve that perfect crispy texture without overcooking the chicken.
5. Adjust Brown Sugar to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet coating, reduce the amount of brown sugar or add a touch of spice to balance the sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• Appetizer Option: Serve these tenders on a platter with toothpicks for an easy-to-eat appetizer.
• Main Course: Pair with a side salad, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Kids’ Favorite: Kids love these sweet and savory chicken tenders, making them an ideal dish for family gatherings or parties.

Nutritional Information

1. High Protein: Chicken tenders provide a substantial protein boost, making these bites filling and satisfying.
2. Moderate Fat: Using bacon adds a savory richness, so balancing with lighter sides, like vegetables, keeps the meal nutritious.
3. Controlled Sweetness: While brown sugar adds sweetness, you can reduce the amount or substitute with a low-carb sweetener for a keto-friendly version.

Storage and Reheating

1. Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Reheat for Best Results: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warm and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bacon soggy.
3. Freeze for Later: To freeze, wrap each tender individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe with turkey bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a substitute. However, keep in mind that turkey bacon may not crisp up as well as pork bacon, so adjust cooking times accordingly.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders up to the point of baking. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

3. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be substituted, but they may require a few extra minutes of cooking time.

4. Can I add spices to the brown sugar mixture?
Absolutely! Chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even a hint of cinnamon can add interesting flavors to the brown sugar mixture.

5. What dipping sauces go well with this dish?
Honey mustard, ranch, barbecue sauce, and spicy mayo all pair well with the flavors of these bacon-wrapped chicken tenders.

Conclusion

These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, the combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and caramelized brown sugar glaze makes this recipe a guaranteed hit at any gathering.

Yield: 4

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe

Print

Indulge in the perfect combination of sweet and savory with these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. This recipe combines tender chicken strips wrapped in crispy bacon and coated with a sweet, caramelized brown sugar glaze. These tenders are incredibly easy to prepare and make a delicious appetizer, party snack, or even a main dish. The contrasting flavors of smoky bacon, tender chicken, and the caramelized sweetness make every bite irresistible.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 8-10 strips of bacon
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
   
2. Prepare the Brown Sugar Mix:
   In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder.
   
3. Wrap the Chicken:
   Take one chicken tender and wrap it with a strip of bacon, securing the ends by tucking them under the tender. Repeat with remaining chicken tenders.
   
4. Coat with Brown Sugar Mixture:
   Roll each bacon-wrapped chicken tender in the brown sugar mixture, pressing lightly so the mixture adheres to the bacon and chicken.
   
5. Bake:
   Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
   
6. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

• For Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture for a touch of heat.
• Air Fryer Option: Cook in an air fryer at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, for a crispier finish.