Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Wrapped in crispy bacon, coated with brown sugar, and seasoned with garlic and paprika, they offer a delicious caramelized exterior with juicy chicken inside. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main course, these tenders are sure to please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Sweet and Savory Combo: The contrast of salty bacon and sweet brown sugar makes these chicken tenders a flavor-packed treat.
Minimal Ingredients: You only need six simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen.
Easy to Make: With just a few steps and no complicated techniques, this dish is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.
Versatile Dish: These tenders make a fantastic appetizer, party snack, or even a main dish when paired with your favorite sides.

Key Ingredients:

Chicken Tenders: If you don’t have chicken tenders, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them into strips. Chicken thighs can also be used for an even juicier result.
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works great for a heartier bite, but keep in mind it might take a little longer to crisp up. You can also use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Brown Sugar: Both light and dark brown sugar will work for this recipe. Dark brown sugar will give you a more intense molasses flavor.
Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a little heat, or swap the paprika for smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken tenders and season them evenly with:
Garlic powder
Paprika
Salt
Pepper
Make sure each chicken tender is well-coated with the seasoning blend.

Wrap with Bacon:
Take one strip of bacon and carefully wrap it around each seasoned chicken tender.
If necessary, secure the ends of the bacon with toothpicks to prevent the bacon from unraveling while baking.

Step 2: Add the Sweet Touch

Coat with Brown Sugar:
Spread brown sugar evenly over the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders.
Gently press the sugar onto the bacon to help it adhere. This will give the chicken a delicious caramelized coating as it bakes.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Bake:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
Place the bacon-wrapped tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is space between each tender for even cooking.
Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C)).

Rest and Serve:
Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for at least 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
Serve and enjoy the delicious combination of crispy bacon and tender chicken with a caramelized sweet touch!

Serving Suggestions:

These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

Appetizer: Serve them as a finger food at parties, with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Main Dish: Pair the tenders with a side of mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Salad Topper: Slice the tenders and use them to top a fresh green salad for a hearty, flavor-packed lunch.
Dipping Sauces: Serve with a range of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or sweet chili sauce to complement the sweet and savory flavors.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips:

Refrigerate: Store 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 restore crispiness, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry (just note the bacon may not stay as crispy).

Freeze: You can freeze cooked tenders by wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Make Ahead: For a time-saving option, prepare the bacon-wrapped tenders and coat them in brown sugar ahead of time. Store them in the fridge, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking.

Recipe Variations:

Spicy-Sweet Tenders: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the brown sugar for a spicy-sweet kick that’s perfect for those who like a bit of heat.
Herb-Infused Tenders: Mix Italian seasoning or rosemary into the seasoning blend for a more herbaceous flavor that pairs beautifully with the bacon.
Maple Glaze: For a twist on the classic, substitute maple syrup for the brown sugar. Drizzle the syrup over the tenders halfway through baking for a sweet, sticky glaze that’s perfect with crispy bacon.

Conclusion:

These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a guaranteed hit, whether you’re serving them as a party snack, a family dinner, or a flavorful addition to any meal. The combination of sweet caramelized brown sugar, savory bacon, and juicy chicken makes each bite an explosion of flavor. Plus, they’re easy to customize with different seasonings and dips to suit your preferences!