Description: These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delightful combination of savory and sweet, featuring juicy chicken wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in a rich brown sugar glaze. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The combination of smoky bacon, tender chicken, and caramelized brown sugar creates an irresistible flavor that both kids and adults will love. This dish requires minimal prep time and uses common ingredients, making it a convenient and delicious option for any occasion. The best part? It’s all done in the oven, making cleanup a breeze! This recipe is a guaranteed winner that will leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy the symphony of flavors in every bite!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 8 strips of bacon (preferably thick-cut)
Preparation:
Before you begin, ensure you have all your ingredients ready and your oven preheating. Preparing your ingredients beforehand will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient. This recipe is all about the harmonious blend of flavors, so let’s dive in!
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial to ensure the bacon cooks evenly and the chicken cooks through without drying out. Using an oven thermometer is recommended for accurate temperature.
Step 2: Slice each chicken breast into 4 long strips. Aim for consistent sizes, about 1 inch thick. This ensures even cooking. If the chicken breasts are particularly thick, you may want to butterfly them before slicing to ensure they cook through evenly.
Step 3: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the brown sugar, Kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Mix well until there are no lumps. This creates the perfect balance of sweet and savory to complement the chicken and bacon.
Step 4: Add the chicken strips to the bowl with the brown sugar mixture. Toss until each strip is thoroughly coated. Make sure every nook and cranny of the chicken is covered with the brown sugar mixture for maximum flavor. This is where the magic happens, infusing the chicken with sweetness and a hint of spice.
Step 5: Wrap each chicken strip with a slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if necessary. The bacon should be wrapped tightly around the chicken to prevent it from unraveling during baking. Place the wrapped chicken strips in a baking dish, ensuring they are not overcrowded. An overcrowded dish can lead to uneven cooking.
Step 6: Sprinkle any remaining brown sugar mixture over the top of the bacon-wrapped chicken. This will create a beautiful caramelized crust as it bakes. If you find you’ve used all the brown sugar mixture, you can sprinkle a little extra brown sugar directly on top for added sweetness and caramelization.
Step 7: Bake for 20-25 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). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe temperature. If the bacon is not as crispy as you’d like after 25 minutes, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Why you will love this recipe
You will absolutely adore this recipe because it is incredibly simple, uses minimal ingredients, and delivers an explosion of flavor. The sweet and savory combination of brown sugar and bacon with tender chicken is irresistible. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. This recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit different tastes. Plus, it’s a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders as a main course with a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. They are also delicious served over rice or quinoa. For a lighter meal, pair them with a fresh salad. As an appetizer, serve them with toothpicks for easy handling and a dipping sauce like honey mustard or BBQ sauce. These tenders are also fantastic in sliders or wraps.
Tips:
- For extra crispy bacon, partially cook the bacon in a skillet before wrapping the chicken. This helps to render some of the fat and ensures the bacon gets nice and crispy in the oven.
- Use thick-cut bacon for a meatier and more flavorful result.
- If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use regular sugar mixed with a little molasses.
- To prevent the chicken from drying out, marinate it in a simple brine of salt and sugar water for about 30 minutes before preparing the recipe.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture.
- If you’re short on time, you can assemble the tenders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Calories: Approximately 350 per serving (serving size: 2-3 tenders)
Protein: Approximately 30g per serving
Sodium: Approximately 500mg per serving
Conclusion
These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a testament to how simple ingredients can create a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. The combination of flavors and textures makes this recipe a winner every time. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these tenders are sure to impress. Easy to prepare and even easier to devour, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the sweet and savory combination of bacon and brown sugar. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a culinary delight that will become a new family favorite!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs. They will result in a more moist and flavorful tender, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Q3: What dipping sauces go well with these chicken tenders?
A: Many dipping sauces complement these tenders. Honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and even a spicy sriracha mayo are all excellent choices.
Q4: Can I freeze these chicken tenders after they’re cooked?
A: Yes, you can freeze them. Allow the tenders to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Q5: Can I grill these instead of baking them?
A: Yes, you can grill them! Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the wrapped chicken tenders on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through. Be sure to monitor them closely to prevent burning.
