Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

When you bite into these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, you’re in for a delightful surprise. Sweet, savory, and perfectly crispy, these chicken tenders have become a staple in my home, especially on busy weeknights. The irresistible combination of sweet brown sugar and salty bacon makes them a hit with kids and adults alike. Not to mention, they come together quickly, making them a great choice for a last-minute dinner or a simple snack. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire.

What Makes This Recipe Special

If you’re looking for a dish that impresses without demanding hours in the kitchen, Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders is your answer. They are not only easy to prepare but also pack a flavor punch that you’ll crave again and again. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or served at a gathering, these tenders are an all-round favorite.

"This dish has quickly become a family favorite! The sweet and savory balance is perfect, and it’s so easy to make. I’m never going back to plain chicken again!" – A delighted home cook.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Creating these flavorful chicken tenders is simpler than you might think. The combination of wrapping chicken in bacon and rolling them in a brown sugar mixture results in an unforgettable dish. Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the sweet-and-savory coating.
3. Wrap the chicken tenders in bacon.
4. Coat each one in the brown sugar mixture.
5. Bake until golden and crispy.

Get ready to impress yourself with these tasty tenders!

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Here’s a handy list of ingredients to gather before you start cooking:

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 8 slices of bacon
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Feel free to substitute with turkey bacon or even add some paprika for a spicy kick!

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready for your tenders.
2. Mix the coating: In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Wrap the chicken: Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each chicken tender, securing it with a toothpick.
4. Coat in sugar mixture: Roll each bacon-wrapped tender in the brown sugar mixture until well coated.
5. Prepare to bake: Place the tenders on a lined baking sheet.
6. Bake: Cook in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Serving

These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are delicious on their own, but they shine even brighter with the right accompaniments. Consider serving them with a refreshing coleslaw or a side of sweet potato fries for a well-rounded meal. For dipping, a honey mustard or ranch sauce pairs beautifully with the crispy bacon and sweet sugar coating.

Best Way to Store Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

To keep your tenders fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3-4 days. If you want to stash them for a longer period, feel free to freeze them! Just make sure they are cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Reheat them in the oven to retain their crispiness—microwaving might leave them a bit soggy.

Pro Chef Tips

• For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken tenders in your favorite sauce before wrapping them in bacon.
• Ensure your bacon is slightly thawed if using frozen. This makes it easier to wrap around the chicken.
• Use a good-quality brown sugar to enhance the caramelization on the bacon.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture for a spicy twist.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic flavor.
• Sweet and Spicy Glaze: Brush some chili garlic sauce over the tenders before baking for a sweet-and-spicy glaze.

Common Questions

How long does it take to prepare and cook the chicken tenders?

The whole process, including prep and cooking, takes approximately 30-35 minutes.

Can I substitute ingredients?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, use turkey bacon, or if you’re avoiding sugar, try a sugar substitute.

What’s the best way to know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.

With these tips and insights, your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are sure to steal the show at your next meal. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

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• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Sweet, savory, and perfectly crispy chicken tenders wrapped in bacon, ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 8 slices of bacon
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix the coating: In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Wrap the chicken: Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each chicken tender, securing it with a toothpick.
4. Coat in sugar mixture: Roll each bacon-wrapped tender in the brown sugar mixture until well coated.
5. Prepare to bake: Place the tenders on a lined baking sheet.
6. Bake: Cook in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and chicken is cooked through.

Notes

These tenders can be served with coleslaw or sweet potato fries. For dipping, try honey mustard or ranch sauce.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: chicken tenders, bacon, brown sugar, easy weeknight dinner, crispy chicken