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Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
When it comes to weeknight dinners that impress, Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a top contender. Imagine juicy chicken tenders wrapped in crispy bacon, coated in a sweet and savory brown sugar glaze. This recipe is not just another meal; it’s comfort food at its finest. Perfect for family dinners or parties, these tenders will have everyone clamoring for seconds (and maybe thirds!).
Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
So, what makes Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders a must-try? For starters, they’re not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. You’ll see why kids (and adults!) adore them. This dish combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the sweetness of brown sugar, creating an irresistible flavor profile. Plus, it’s budget-friendly! Utilizing chicken tenders means you’re likely to keep your grocery bills down while packing a flavorful punch.
“These were a hit at our last family gathering! The combination of bacon and sweetness was divine. I will definitely be making these again.”
Your Easy Cooking Guide
Now, let’s jump into how to whip up these delightful chicken tenders. The process is straightforward, ensuring that even novice cooks can impress with this dish. You’ll be wrapping, dipping, and baking, all in a surprisingly simple sequence, which makes it perfect for a quick dinner solution.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
Feel free to swap in turkey bacon if you’re looking for a leaner option or experiment with sugar substitutes for a lower-carb variety!
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, and a sprinkle of salt.
- Take a chicken tender and wrap a slice of bacon around it, securing it with a toothpick to hold everything in place.
- Dip each bacon-wrapped tender into the brown sugar mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Arrange the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
- Serve warm and enjoy the flavors!
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- ✨ Chocolate lovers’ dreams – fudgy bars, truffles & mousse
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- 🍪 Classic favorites – icebox cakes & cookie dough cups
Best Way to Serve
When it comes to serving Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, think balance. A fresh garden salad or coleslaw pairs wonderfully with the tenders, cutting through the richness. Consider serving them with a side of honey mustard or BBQ sauce for dipping. If you want to make it a hearty meal, add some roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes on the side.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though we doubt it!), here’s how to keep them fresh. Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for about 3-4 days this way. To reheat, pop them back in the oven for a few minutes until heated through, or use an air fryer for that crispy texture.
Pro Chef Tips
To elevate your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders even more, consider these expert insights:
- Allow the chicken tenders to marinate in the brown sugar mixture for an hour before wrapping them in bacon for an extra burst of flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Experiment with seasonings! Adding some crushed red pepper flakes can give it a spicy kick.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try:
- Swap regular bacon for maple smoked bacon for a sweeter taste.
- Add cheese! Place a small slice of cheddar or pepper jack inside the chicken before wrapping with bacon for a cheesy surprise.
- Try a different glaze by using honey instead of brown sugar for a sticky sweetness.
Your Questions Answered
Q: How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
A: Active preparation takes about 15 minutes, plus 20-25 minutes of baking time.
Q: Can I use different types of chicken?
A: Absolutely! Chicken breasts sliced into strips work well; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: What should I do if I don’t have brown sugar?
A: You can make a quick substitute by mixing white sugar with a bit of molasses or honey.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, and watch as this recipe becomes a staple in your household!
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Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Juicy chicken tenders wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in a sweet and savory brown sugar glaze, perfect for family dinners or parties.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, and a sprinkle of salt.
- Wrap a slice of bacon around each chicken tender and secure it with a toothpick.
- Dip each bacon-wrapped tender into the brown sugar mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Arrange the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
- Serve warm and enjoy the flavors!
Notes
For a leaner option, swap in turkey bacon. Allow chicken to marinate in brown sugar mixture for an hour for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tender
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: chicken tenders, bacon, brown sugar, easy dinner, comfort food



