Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a deliciously sweet and savory dish that combines juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and caramelized brown sugar. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for dinner, parties, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 8 strips of bacon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Slice Chicken:
- Slice each chicken breast into 4 tenders, making a total of 8 chicken tenders.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- Mix Seasonings:
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, Kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
- Coat Chicken:
- Rub each chicken tender with the brown sugar mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 3: Wrap with Bacon
- Wrap Chicken:
- Wrap each chicken tender with a strip of bacon, securing the ends if needed with toothpicks.
- Roll in Brown Sugar:
- Roll the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders in any remaining brown sugar mixture to coat the bacon.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken Tenders
- Place on Rack:
- Place the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on the wire rack set over the baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate around the chicken, ensuring even cooking and crispy bacon.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauce, if desired. Enjoy this sweet and savory delight with family and friends!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken tenders for convenience if you prefer.
- Bacon: Thin-cut bacon works best for wrapping as it crisps up nicely without overcooking the chicken.
- Sugar Mixture: Ensure the brown sugar mixture is well-rubbed into the chicken for maximum flavor.
Variations
Spicy Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Add Heat:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture for a spicy kick.
Honey Mustard Bacon Chicken Tenders
- Add Honey Mustard:
- Brush the chicken tenders with honey mustard before wrapping them in bacon for an added layer of flavor.
Garlic Herb Bacon Chicken Tenders
- Add Garlic and Herbs:
- Mix 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs into the brown sugar mixture for a garlic herb twist.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- With Salad:
- Serve with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.
- With Vegetables:
- Pair with roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
Beverages
- With Lemonade:
- Enjoy with a glass of homemade lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing drink.
- With Wine:
- Pair with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, for a sophisticated touch.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I use turkey bacon? A: Yes, you can use turkey bacon for a leaner option. Note that turkey bacon may not crisp up as much as regular bacon.
Q: Can I grill these chicken tenders? A: Yes, you can grill the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders over medium heat for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that all the ingredients, including the bacon, are certified gluten-free.
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and caramelized brown sugar coating, these tenders are sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is easy to make and always delicious. Enjoy making and sharing these tasty chicken tenders with your family and friends!