Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: A Sweet and Savory Delight for Dinner

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delightful fusion of savory and sweet that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. This dish combines the irresistible crunch of perfectly cooked chicken tenders with the smoky richness of bacon and the caramelized sweetness of brown sugar. Originating from the heart of American comfort food, these tenders have become a favorite for family dinners, game day snacks, and potlucks alike.

People love Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders not only for their mouthwatering flavor but also for their incredible texture. The crispy bacon envelops the tender chicken, creating a satisfying bite that is both juicy and crunchy. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly convenient, making it easy to whip up a crowd-pleasing dish in no time. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these chicken tenders are sure to impress and become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 pound bacon, cut in half
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken Tenders

1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken tenders cook evenly and become crispy.
2. While the oven is preheating, rinse the chicken tenders under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the seasoning adhere better to the chicken.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl with the brown sugar mixture. Toss the chicken tenders in the mixture until they are fully coated. Make sure each piece is generously covered with the seasoning blend.

Preparing the Bacon

1. Take the bacon slices and cut them in half. You will use these halves to wrap around the chicken tenders.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. This will help the bacon crisp up nicely when cooked.
3. Once the oil is hot, take one chicken tender at a time and wrap it with a half slice of bacon. Start at one end of the chicken tender and wrap the bacon around it, overlapping slightly as you go. Secure the end of the bacon with a toothpick if necessary to keep it in place.
4. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders until they are all wrapped in bacon.

Cooking the Chicken Tenders

1. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate around the chicken tenders, ensuring they cook evenly and the bacon becomes crispy.
2. Arrange the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on the wire rack, making sure they are spaced out evenly. This will help them cook properly without steaming each other.
3. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken tenders should be cooked through, and the bacon should be crispy. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. If you want extra crispy bacon, you can broil the chicken tenders for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the cooking time. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Assembling and Serving

1. Once the chicken tenders are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken tender and juicy.
2. Carefully remove the toothpicks from the chicken tenders if you used them to secure the bacon.
3. Transfer the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders to a serving platter. You can garnish them with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
4. Serve the bacon brown sugar chicken tenders warm, alongside your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard.

Tips for Perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

• For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the brown sugar mixture.
• If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of brown sugar to 3/4 cup or even 1/2 cup.
• Feel free to experiment with different spices in the seasoning mix. Adding a teaspoon of chili powder or cumin can give the chicken a unique flavor profile.
• For a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, though the cooking time may vary slightly.

Conclusion:

In summary, these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner or impress guests at a gathering. The combination of crispy bacon, sweet brown sugar, and tender chicken creates a flavor explosion that is both savory and sweet, making it a dish that appeals to all palates. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these delectable tenders with a side of creamy coleslaw or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the bacon. You can also serve them with a dipping sauce, such as a tangy barbecue or a zesty ranch, to add an extra layer of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different spices or glazes—adding a hint of cayenne for heat or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity can take this dish to new heights. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag us on social media; we love seeing how you make this recipe your own! Enjoy the deliciousness and happy cooking!

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