Delight your taste buds with these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders! Sweet, smoky, and savory, they’re the perfect combination for a quick appetizer, snack, or dinner idea.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces)
8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Directions
Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Make the Brown Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Mix thoroughly until all the spices are evenly incorporated into the sugar.
Wrap the Chicken
Take each chicken tender and wrap it tightly with one slice of cooked bacon.
Roll the bacon-wrapped chicken in the prepared brown sugar mixture, ensuring even coverage.
Bake to Perfection
Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
Serve and Enjoy
Allow the tenders to cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy them as is, or pair with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch.
Timing Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: ~320 kcal
Protein: ~25g
Carbohydrates: ~12g
Fat: ~18g
Fiber: ~0g
Why This Recipe Works
Flavorful Balance: The sweetness of brown sugar perfectly complements the smoky bacon and savory chicken.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults love the addictive flavor and texture combination.
Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success
Use Thick-Cut Bacon: For a meatier bite, opt for thick-cut bacon; just ensure it’s pre-cooked for a crispier finish.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Space out the chicken tenders to allow proper air circulation, ensuring they bake evenly.
Customize the Seasoning: Add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick or swap the paprika for smoked paprika for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as an appetizer with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
Pair with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Add to a party platter alongside sliders, wings, and other finger foods.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for 5-8 minutes to restore crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders recipe combines simplicity with bold flavors. The tender chicken, wrapped in smoky bacon and coated in a sweet-spicy rub, creates a delightful texture and taste in every bite. Whether for dinner or a casual get-together, these tenders are guaranteed to impress!