Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a dish that will wow your taste buds, these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are it! Imagine tender chicken coated in a mouthwatering mix of smoky bacon and sweet brown sugar, with a hint of spice from paprika, garlic, and onion. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a delicious crunch from crispy bacon. This recipe is so easy, but the flavor is off the charts prepare to be hooked! Whether you’re serving them as a main dish, appetizer, or snack, these tenders are sure to be a hit.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of sweet brown sugar, smoky bacon, and savory spices creates an irresistible dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
• Easy and Quick: With just 10 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, you can have these chicken tenders in the oven in no time!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or even a party appetizer. Everyone loves the sweet-and-savory combo!
• Kid-Friendly: The sweetness from the brown sugar makes these a hit with kids, while the bacon adds a flavor that adults will love too.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces): The perfect size for this recipe. If you can’t find chicken tenders, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips.
• 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds smoky, savory goodness to every bite.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: The sweet component that caramelizes on the chicken, creating a beautiful glaze.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a bit of warmth and smoky flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For a subtle garlicky flavor that complements the sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth and enhances the savory elements.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and brings out the sweetness.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a hint of heat to round out the seasoning.
• Cooking spray or oil (for greasing): Keeps the chicken from sticking to the pan and ensures a crisp finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken tenders bake evenly and the bacon crisps up perfectly. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil.

2. Prepare the Seasoning Mix

In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir the mixture until all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sugar.

3. Season the Chicken Tenders

Place your 1 lb of chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each piece. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture generously over the chicken tenders, making sure they are well coated on all sides. The brown sugar will melt as the tenders bake, forming a delicious, sticky glaze.

4. Add the Bacon

Once the chicken is coated with the seasoning, take your 8 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon and sprinkle them over the top of the tenders. The bacon will add an extra layer of flavor and texture as it crisps up during baking.

5. Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the chicken tenders for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the brown sugar should be caramelized, giving the tenders a glossy finish.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Once the tenders are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders hot and fresh, with all the sweet, savory, and smoky flavors melting together.

Tips for the Best Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

• Crispy Bacon Hack: For even crispier bacon, partially cook it before adding it to the chicken tenders. This ensures that it will be crispy without overcooking the chicken.
• Even Coating: Use your hands to rub the brown sugar seasoning onto the chicken for a more even and thorough coating.
• Use a Rack: If you want even crispier tenders, place a wire rack on your baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate around the chicken, preventing the bottom from becoming soggy.

Pairing Suggestions

These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides, depending on whether you’re serving them as a main dish or a snack:

• Side Salad: Balance the sweetness with a crisp green salad, dressed in a tangy vinaigrette.
• Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes complements the flavors in the tenders perfectly.
• Coleslaw: A creamy, crunchy coleslaw is a great side for adding freshness and contrast to the rich chicken tenders.
• Dipping Sauce: Serve with a honey mustard dip or BBQ sauce to take the flavor up a notch!

Customization Ideas

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a little heat.
• Honey Glaze: Drizzle a little honey over the tenders just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and shine.
• Herb Twist: Add some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the seasoning for a more earthy flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make These Tenders in an Air Fryer?

Yes! If you want to make these in an air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The air fryer will make the bacon extra crispy!

Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?

You can prepare the tenders and season them up to a day ahead of time. Just cover them tightly and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep the bacon crispy, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 15g

Final Thoughts

These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of sweet, smoky, and savory, making them a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a get-together with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. With its simple preparation and incredible flavor, you’ll be adding this dish to your regular rotation in no time! 🥓🍗

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4