Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. The brown sugar creates a caramelized coating on the chicken, while the bacon adds a crispy, smoky crunch. A quick and easy meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 8 slices bacon

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon and secure with toothpicks.
4. Roll the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders in the brown sugar mixture until evenly coated.
5. Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with foil.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
7. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture for some extra heat.
• BBQ Flavor: Brush the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders with your favorite BBQ sauce before baking.
• Herb Infusion: Sprinkle the chicken tenders with dried thyme or rosemary for an herbal twist.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken tenders in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain their crispy texture.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just cut them into smaller strips to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake them.
3. Can I use turkey bacon? Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a substitute, though it may not crisp up as well as regular bacon.
4. What can I serve with these chicken tenders? These tenders pair well with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables.
5. Can I freeze these chicken tenders? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked, bacon-wrapped chicken tenders. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
6. Can I make these without the brown sugar? You could omit the brown sugar, but it’s the key ingredient that gives the chicken tenders their sweet, caramelized coating. Consider using a sugar substitute if desired.
7. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer.
8. Can I use other spices instead of garlic powder and paprika? Yes, feel free to experiment with different spices such as onion powder, smoked paprika, or even chili powder for a unique flavor.
9. What can I use to secure the bacon if I don’t have toothpicks? You can use kitchen twine or even wrap the bacon tightly around the chicken to secure it.
10. Can I make this in an air fryer? Yes, you can cook the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders in an air fryer at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked and the bacon is crispy.

Conclusion

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy bacon, sweet brown sugar, and tender chicken creates a delicious balance of flavors that everyone will love. Whether served as a main dish or appetizer, these tenders are sure to be a hit!

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