When the craving for something crispy, sweet, and savory strikes, nothing hits the spot quite like Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. Just imagine the satisfying crunch of perfectly baked bacon mingling with the rich sweetness of caramelized brown sugar, signaling that dinner is about to be extraordinary. I first made these tenders during a casual get-together with friends, and the compliments flowed as freely as the laughter.
With just 40 minutes to whip them up, they’re the perfect weeknight solution when you’re craving something more than the usual fast food fare. This recipe is not only easy enough for beginners but also satisfies even the pickiest eaters at the family table. Whether you’re celebrating game day or simply looking for a delicious dinner option, these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Get ready to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor—let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Irresistible?
Simplicity: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for those busy weeknights!
Time-Saving: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready in no time.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of crispy bacon and sweet brown sugar is sure to delight friends and family, making it ideal for gatherings or game days.
Versatile: Pair these tenders with diverse dipping sauces or sides, turning each meal into a unique experience.
Flavor Explosion: The rich interplay of sweet and savory creates a mouthwatering dish that’s hard to resist.
With such appealing qualities, it’s no wonder these tenders will earn a permanent spot on your recipe rotation!
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Main protein that delivers a meaty, tender bite; you can also use turkey or chicken thighs for variety.
For the Bacon
• Thick-Cut Bacon – Provides that delicious smoky flavor and crispy texture; for even crispier tenders, consider using thin bacon.
For the Sweet Coating
• Brown Sugar – This is the star ingredient, offering a beautiful caramelization; there’s no direct substitute, but coconut sugar may work for a lower glycemic index.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the dish with aromatic depth; feel free to swap in fresh garlic, but it might affect cooking times.
• Paprika – An optional addition that lends warmth and rich color; experiment with smoked paprika for an extra flavor kick.
• Cayenne Pepper (Optional) – Adds a delightful heat to balance the sweetness; adjust to your spice preference or omit for a milder option.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for elevating the overall flavor profile, and should never be skipped!
The combination of these ingredients makes for a show-stopping dish that’s bound to be a hit. Ready to whip up some Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders? Let’s move on to the preparation!
How to Make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This is a crucial first step to ensure even cooking and crispy bacon perfection.
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Mix the brown sugar coating in a bowl by combining brown sugar with any optional spices you’d like, such as paprika and cayenne. Stir until well-blended—set aside for later use.
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Wrap each chicken tender with a strip of thick-cut bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary. Make sure the bacon covers the chicken adequately for optimal flavor.
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Arrange the bacon-wrapped tenders on a baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow the heat to circulate evenly around each piece.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, and the bacon reaches a crispy, golden brown texture. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
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Rest the tenders for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite more succulent and delicious.
Optional: Serve with honey mustard or BBQ sauce for extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
Imagine gathering your loved ones around a table, the aroma of sweet and savory tenders filling the air while side dishes complement the already scrumptious chicken.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The slight sweetness and crunchy texture pair beautifully with the tenders, offering a delightful contrast.
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Garlic Parmesan Green Beans: Fresh green beans sautéed with garlic and parmesan add a vibrant kick, elevating your meal with a burst of flavor. They bring freshness, balancing the rich chicken.
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Creamy Coleslaw: Cool and crunchy, coleslaw cuts through the savory richness of the tenders, providing a refreshing bite that enhances every mouthful.
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Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce that takes an already flavorful dish to the next level, perfect for those who love an extra zing!
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Light Garden Salad: Packed with crisp veggies and a light vinaigrette, this salad adds a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: With their crispy edges and deep flavor, these sprouts perfectly match the sweet and savory profile of the chicken tenders.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: A fizzy drink that complements the sweetness of the dish, making every forkful even more enjoyable.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note with these classic treats. Their chewy texture and richness create a delightful finale to your meal.
Helpful Tricks for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
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Crispier Bacon: Partially cook the bacon before wrapping to achieve that ultimate crunch without overcooking the chicken.
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Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer! Chicken tends should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe and tender results.
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Avoid Dry Chicken: Keep an eye on baking times—overcooking can dry out your chicken tenders, so set a timer and check them toward the end.
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Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to personalize your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders with unique spice blends like Italian herbs or BBQ seasoning to elevate their flavor.
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Sauce Pairing: Experiment with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or even spicy sriracha to complement the sweet and savory aspects of the dish.
These tips will help you create the most delicious and well-balanced Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders that your family will love!
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the tenders fresh and ready for another delicious meal!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bacon soggy.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy again, thaw the tenders in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best results.
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Variations
Feel free to get creative with these chicken tenders and customize them to suit your tastes or dietary needs!
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Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the brown sugar coating for a delightful kick. Spicy lovers will truly appreciate this fiery twist!
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Herb Infusion: Mix in some dried Italian herbs or fresh rosemary with your brown sugar for an aromatic twist. The fragrant herbs elevate the overall flavor profile beautifully.
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Cheesy Delight: Top the chicken with shredded cheese during the last few minutes of baking. Cheese lovers will rejoice at the melty goodness that pairs so well with bacon!
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Coconut Sugar: Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar to achieve a lower glycemic option. It retains that caramel flavor while making the dish a touch healthier.
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Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, ensure your bacon and any spices are certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious tenders without worry.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a little maple syrup over the tenders just before serving. The added flavor is simply irresistible!
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BBQ Flavor: Incorporate your favorite BBQ sauce into the coating for a smoky, tangy twist. This addition will have the whole family asking for seconds!
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Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture. Thighs lend a different depth of flavor that pairs exceedingly well with the bacon and sugar.
With these variations, your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders can be perfectly tailored to fit every occasion and palate!
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can wrap the chicken tenders in bacon and coat them with the brown sugar mixture up to 24 hours in advance—just refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. For optimal taste and texture, it’s best to bake them right before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your tenders, simply pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked and the bacon is crispy. With this make-ahead option, you’ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal ready in no time, allowing you to make busy weeknights a breeze!
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe because they cook evenly and stay juicy. However, you can also substitute them with turkey or chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.
How should I store leftover Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy them later without sacrificing taste!
Can I freeze Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
Certainly! To freeze, first arrange the cooked chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will remain good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results before reheating.
What should I do if my chicken tenders turn out dry?
Very! To prevent dry chicken, keep an eye on your baking time. Overcooking is the main culprit for dryness, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—your chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). If they’re still drying out, it can help to let them rest for a few minutes after baking, as this allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Is there a way to adjust the spiciness of the recipe for kids or guests?
Absolutely! If you want to reduce the heat, simply omit the cayenne pepper, or you can start with a small pinch and taste as you go, adjusting according to your preference. If you know someone has allergies, be sure to check that all ingredients, especially sauces served alongside, are suitable for everyone!
How can I ensure my bacon is crispy on the chicken?
For optimal crispiness, consider partially cooking your bacon before wrapping it around the chicken. About 5-10 minutes in the microwave or an oven will do the trick! This means it will reach that perfect crunch while still allowing the chicken to cook thoroughly.
Feel free to experiment and customize as you prepare these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders! Enjoy!
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: Easy Sweet & Savory Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the brown sugar coating in a bowl by combining brown sugar with any optional spices you'd like, such as paprika and cayenne. Stir until well-blended—set aside for later use.
- Wrap each chicken tender with a strip of thick-cut bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped tenders on a baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, and the bacon reaches a crispy, golden brown texture.
- Rest the tenders for 5 minutes after baking to let juices redistribute.