There’s something irresistible about the combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and the caramelized sweetness of brown sugar. Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, a game-day snack, or a party appetizer, these chicken tenders deliver big on flavor while remaining incredibly simple to prepare. Let’s dive into this finger-licking recipe and explore all the tips and variations that will make it your new go-to dish.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need a handful of basic pantry staples and fresh ingredients:
Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Bacon Coating:
- 12-16 slices of thin-cut bacon (one slice per chicken tender; thin bacon cooks more evenly)
- ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a touch of spice)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Additional:
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to allow air to circulate around the chicken tenders. Spray the rack lightly with non-stick cooking spray.
2: Season the Chicken
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick better.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning evenly over the chicken tenders.
3: Wrap with Bacon
- Take one slice of bacon and tightly wrap it around each chicken tender, slightly overlapping as you go. Ensure the ends of the bacon are tucked underneath to prevent unwrapping during cooking.
4: Coat in Brown Sugar Mixture
- In another small bowl, combine the brown sugar, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Roll each bacon-wrapped chicken tender in the sugar mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres evenly.
5: Arrange and Bake
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared wire rack, ensuring they are not touching to allow for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
6: Optional Broil
- For extra crispiness, turn the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Watch closely to avoid burning the sugar.
7: Serve
- Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness, then serve immediately.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bacon: Thin-cut bacon is ideal for this recipe because it crisps up more easily without overcooking the chicken. Thick-cut bacon may take longer to cook and could result in soggy strips.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Space out the chicken tenders on the wire rack to ensure even airflow and crispier results.
- Double-Coat for Extra Sweetness: After the chicken tenders are halfway cooked, sprinkle a little more brown sugar mixture on top for an extra caramelized layer.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked without being dry.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use an air fryer for crispiness.
- Freeze: Wrap each cooked chicken tender individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the tenders before baking for a spicier version.
- Honey Mustard Glaze: Drizzle honey mustard over the bacon-wrapped tenders during the last 5 minutes of baking for an extra layer of flavor.
- Maple Twist: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
- Cheesy Bacon Tenders: After baking, sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan over the tenders and broil until melted.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook the tenders in an air fryer at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.
Nutrition Details
While the exact nutritional values will vary depending on portion size and ingredients, here’s an estimate for one bacon-wrapped chicken tender (based on a recipe yield of 12 tenders):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Sugar: 5g
FAQ
Can I make these in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake when ready.
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, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. They’re also delicious served with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or spicy aioli.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lower-fat option. Keep in mind that it may not crisp up as much as pork bacon.
Why is my bacon not crispy?
If your bacon isn’t crispy, it may be too thick or not cooked long enough. Using thin-cut bacon and broiling for the last few minutes of baking should help achieve that perfect crispiness.
Are these chicken tenders gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as all your ingredients, particularly the spices and bacon, are certified gluten-free.
Enjoy these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders as a guaranteed hit at your next gathering or as a delectable treat for yourself! 😊
