why make this recipe
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy meal that everyone will love. The combination of sweet brown sugar and salty bacon creates a tasty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you want to impress your family, host a gathering, or enjoy a comforting meal at home, these tenders hit the spot. Plus, they are simple to make and require minimal ingredients, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
how to make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Ingredients :
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken tenders (or boneless chicken breast cut into strips)
- 8–10 slices of bacon
- ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for flavor)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Pinch of salt
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. This helps the bacon crisp while the chicken cooks.
- Mix the coating: In a shallow bowl, stir together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, pepper, and salt.
- Wrap the chicken: Take each chicken tender and wrap it tightly with a slice of bacon. Tuck the ends underneath so they don’t unravel.
- Coat in sugar mix: Roll each bacon-wrapped tender in the brown sugar mixture, pressing lightly so it sticks.
- Arrange on rack: Place the coated chicken tenders seam-side down on the wire rack.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F/74°C internal temperature) and the bacon is caramelized and crispy.
- Optional finish: For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—watch closely to prevent burning.
- Rest and serve: Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving so the caramelized sugar firms up.
how to serve Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
These chicken tenders are great on their own or served with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or BBQ sauce. You can also pair them with a side of veggies, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Serve them at parties or as a delicious snack for game day!
how to store Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
If you have leftovers, store the chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which helps keep the bacon crispy.
tips to make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Use thick-cut bacon for extra flavor and better wrapping around the chicken.
- If you want a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture.
- Make sure to watch the chicken in the oven, especially while broiling, to avoid burning.
variation
For a healthier option, you can skip the bacon and coat the chicken tenders in the brown sugar mixture alone. You could also bake them without wrapping if you want a lower-fat version, giving you a sweet and crispy treat!
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes! You can cut boneless chicken breasts into strips and use them instead of chicken tenders.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked tenders. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be reheated from frozen in the oven.
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb 1 lb (450 g) chicken tenders (or boneless chicken breast cut into strips) Use chicken tenders or cut boneless chicken breast into strips.
- 8–10 slices 8–10 slices of bacon Thick-cut bacon recommended for better flavor.
- ½ cup ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed Brown sugar should be packed for proper coating.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp smoked paprika Optional, for added flavor.
- ½ tsp ½ tsp garlic powder Optional seasoning.
- ¼ tsp ¼ tsp black pepper To taste.
- a pinch Pinch of salt To enhance other flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- In a shallow bowl, stir together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, pepper, and salt.
- Wrap each chicken tender tightly with a slice of bacon, tucking the ends underneath.
- Roll each bacon-wrapped tender in the brown sugar mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Place the coated tenders seam-side down on the wire rack.
Cooking
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F/74°C internal temperature) and the bacon is caramelized and crispy.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to firm up the caramelized sugar.
