Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a mouthwatering combination of savory and sweet, making them an irresistible appetizer or main dish. Juicy chicken tenders are wrapped in smoky bacon, then coated with brown sugar and spices to create a caramelized glaze as they bake. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or game day, these chicken tenders are easy to prepare and sure to be a hit with everyone.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 8-10 slices of bacon
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray the rack with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wrap the Chicken Tenders: Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon, making sure to cover as much of the chicken as possible. If the bacon slice is too long, you can trim it to fit.
- Prepare the Brown Sugar Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Coat the Chicken: Roll each bacon-wrapped chicken tender in the brown sugar mixture, pressing gently to help the sugar adhere to the bacon.
- Bake: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared wire rack. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). For extra caramelization, you can broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
- Serve: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm as an appetizer or with your favorite side dishes as a main course.
Tips for Perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Use Thin Bacon: Thin bacon works best for this recipe as it crisps up more easily in the oven. Thick-cut bacon may take longer to cook and might not become as crispy.
- Wire Rack Method: Using a wire rack ensures that the heat circulates evenly around the chicken, allowing the bacon to become crispy on all sides.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure the chicken tenders are spaced apart on the wire rack. Overcrowding can cause them to steam rather than bake, resulting in less crispy bacon.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture for a spicy kick.
- Maple Bacon Chicken Tenders: Drizzle a little maple syrup over the chicken tenders during the last 5 minutes of baking for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Herb-Infused Chicken Tenders: Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary to the brown sugar mixture for a savory herbal twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breast cut into strips if you don’t have chicken tenders. Just make sure they are of similar size to cook evenly.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: 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) until warmed through.
Q: Can I make these in an air fryer?
A: Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders for 12-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delightful blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors that are perfect for any occasion. The crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and caramelized brown sugar coating create an irresistible dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main course, these chicken tenders are sure to please everyone at the table. Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy the perfect combination of flavors!