Description: Indulge in the ultimate sweet and savory delight with these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders! Tender chicken coated in a flavorful blend of brown sugar and spices, wrapped in crispy bacon, and baked to golden perfection. This recipe is incredibly easy, quick, and guaranteed to be a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces)
- 8 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or oil (for greasing)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This prevents the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the bacon. Cook the bacon until it’s crispy but still pliable enough to wrap around the chicken tenders. You can cook it in a skillet, in the oven, or even in the microwave. Once cooked, drain off any excess grease and crumble the bacon into small pieces. Set aside.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. This creates the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that will coat the chicken tenders.
Step 4: Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel. This helps the brown sugar mixture adhere better and ensures that the chicken cooks evenly.
Step 5: Coat each chicken tender with the brown sugar mixture, making sure to rub it in evenly on all sides. This creates a delicious crust that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
Step 6: Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of cooked bacon. If needed, secure with toothpicks to keep the bacon in place during baking.
Step 7: Arrange the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. This allows for even cooking and prevents the chicken from steaming.
Step 8: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Step 9: For a deeper caramelized flavor, broil the chicken tenders for 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 10: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First and foremost, the combination of sweet and savory flavors is simply irresistible. The brown sugar adds a delightful caramel-like sweetness that complements the smoky, salty bacon perfectly. The paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder enhance the overall flavor profile, creating a truly addictive taste.
Secondly, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in under 30 minutes. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to cook.
Thirdly, Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile. They can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even a snack. They are also a great option for parties and gatherings, as they are always a hit with both kids and adults.
Finally, this recipe is easily customizable. You can add a spicy kick by including a pinch of cayenne pepper in the brown sugar mixture. You can also drizzle the chicken tenders with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness and caramelization. For a cheesy, savory touch, sprinkle them with Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of baking. And if you’re a fan of BBQ sauce, you can drizzle it over the chicken tenders for a smoky depth of flavor. Ranch seasoning also adds a nice twist for extra tangy flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.
- Serve as a main course with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice.
- Add to salads for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
- Use as a filling for tacos or wraps.
- Serve as a snack for game day or movie night.
Tips:
- Use thin-cut bacon for best results. It crisps up better without overcooking the chicken.
- Don’t overcoat the chicken with brown sugar. A light coating ensures proper caramelization without burning.
- Line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Cook the bacon slightly before wrapping the chicken. This prevents it from being undercooked when the chicken is done.
- Use a wire rack for even cooking and crispier bacon.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Per Serving, approximately)
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Sodium: 500-600mg
Conclusion:
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delightful and easy-to-make recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. With its perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, this dish is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or snack. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple instructions, and get ready to indulge in a truly irresistible culinary creation!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders? A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but you will need to cut them into smaller pieces that are similar in size to chicken tenders. You may also need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q2: Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon? A: Yes, you can use turkey bacon for a healthier option. However, keep in mind that turkey bacon may not crisp up as well as regular bacon.
Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to bake them just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
Q4: Can I freeze these chicken tenders? A: Yes, you can freeze these chicken tenders after they have been baked. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Q5: Can I grill these chicken tenders instead of baking them? A: Yes, you can grill these chicken tenders over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the bacon is crispy. Just be sure to watch them carefully to prevent burning.
