👉Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet and savory with these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. Each tender is perfectly seasoned and wrapped in crispy bacon, making them a hit for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a delightful dinner, these tenders are sure to impress.

Ingredients Overview

1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces): Tender and juicy, these are the star of our dish.
8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds a smoky, crispy layer to each tender.
1/2 cup brown sugar: Provides a caramelized sweetness that pairs perfectly with bacon.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild, smoky heat.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavors.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
Cooking spray or oil: For greasing the baking sheet.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly grease with cooking spray or oil.

2. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

3. Coat the Chicken: Pat dry the chicken tenders with paper towels. Coat each tender evenly with the brown sugar mixture, pressing it onto all sides.

4. Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each seasoned chicken tender with a slice of cooked bacon, securing it with toothpicks if needed. Place them on the prepared baking sheet seam side down.

5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

6. Serve: Remove the toothpicks before serving. Serve the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders hot as a main dish or appetizer.

Helpful Tips

Tip for Juiciness: Pat the chicken tenders dry before coating them to help the seasoning stick better and prevent excess moisture during baking.
Tip for Crispiness: Use a wire rack on the baking sheet to elevate the tenders. This allows air to circulate and ensures even crispiness.
Flavor Enhancement: Marinate the chicken tenders in the brown sugar mixture for 30 minutes before wrapping with bacon for deeper flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it may make the bacon soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon? Yes, turkey bacon can be used, but note that it might not be as crispy as pork bacon.

2. Can I prepare these chicken tenders in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare them up to the baking step and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze the cooked chicken tenders? Yes, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a 375°F oven.

4. What sides pair well with these tenders? Consider serving with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad.

5. Can I add spices to the brown sugar mixture? Yes, feel free to add your favorite spices like cayenne pepper for heat or smoked paprika for extra smokiness.

6. What if I don’t have parchment paper or aluminum foil? Grease the baking sheet directly with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.

7. How can I make these gluten-free? Ensure all ingredients, especially the bacon and seasonings, are certified gluten-free.

8. Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders? Yes, cut chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenders for even cooking.

9. How do I know when the chicken is done? Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

10. Can I use honey instead of brown sugar? Brown sugar is preferred for its caramelization properties, but honey can be used as a substitute.

11. Can I cook these on the grill? Yes, but monitor closely to prevent burning the brown sugar and bacon.

12. How can I make the bacon extra crispy? Pre-cook the bacon halfway before wrapping the chicken tenders.

13. What can I do with leftover bacon pieces? Use them as a topping for salads, baked potatoes, or scrambled eggs.

14. Can I use dark brown sugar? Yes, dark brown sugar will add a richer molasses flavor.

15. Can I make a larger batch? Certainly! Just ensure you have enough baking sheet space to avoid overcrowding.

16. What can I do if the bacon unravels during baking? Use toothpicks to secure the bacon, ensuring they are removed before serving.

17. Can I add a glaze? Yes, a glaze of honey and mustard can be brushed on during the last 5 minutes of baking.

18. Can I serve these cold? They are best served hot, but can be enjoyed cold in wraps or salads.

19. How do I prevent the brown sugar from burning? Ensure the oven temperature is correct and monitor closely during the last few minutes of baking.

20. Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, all the ingredients are naturally dairy-free.

20 Secrets for Achieving Culinary Perfection

Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh tenders will be juicier and more flavorful.
Pre-cook Bacon: Pre-cooking the bacon halfway ensures it becomes perfectly crispy.
Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning mixture; coat the tenders well.
Marinate for More Flavor: Let the chicken sit in the seasoning for at least 30 minutes.
Uniform Size: Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Use a Rack: Elevate the tenders on a wire rack for even crispiness.
Monitor Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer for accurate baking.
Avoid Overcrowding: Space out tenders on the baking sheet to prevent steaming.
Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to avoid under or overcooking.
Rest Before Serving: Let the tenders rest for a few minutes after baking to retain juices.
Crispy Bacon: Pre-cook the bacon until just starting to crisp before wrapping.
Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne to the brown sugar mixture for a sweet and spicy kick.
Quality Bacon: Use high-quality, thick-cut bacon for the best texture and flavor.
Pat Dry: Always pat the chicken dry to help the seasoning stick better.
Double Dip: Dip the tenders in the seasoning mix twice for extra flavor.
Even Coating: Press the seasoning mix onto the tenders firmly for a thorough coating.
Glaze Finish: Brush with a glaze during the last 5 minutes for a shiny, flavorful finish.
Serve Hot: These tenders are best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the oven.
Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with additional spices and herbs to make the recipe your own.