Chicken tenders are a classic favorite, but when you wrap them in crispy bacon and coat them with brown sugar, they’re elevated to a whole new level. This bacon brown sugar chicken tenders recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors to create an irresistible dish. Whether you’re making them as an appetizer, main course, or snack, these tenders are guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.
Introduction to Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
What Are Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
Bacon brown sugar chicken tenders are exactly what they sound like—juicy chicken tenders wrapped in strips of smoky bacon, then coated in a sweet brown sugar mixture. As they bake, the bacon crisps up while the sugar caramelizes, creating a mouthwatering glaze. It’s the ultimate finger food that feels fancy yet comforting.
The Perfect Combination of Sweet and Savory
There’s a reason why sweet and savory dishes are so satisfying. The smoky, salty bacon pairs beautifully with the caramelized brown sugar, creating a flavor profile that hits all the right notes. It’s like a flavor symphony in every bite, with tender chicken as the star of the show.
Why This Recipe Is a Crowd Favorite
This recipe has all the qualities of a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, visually impressive, and downright delicious. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, preparing dinner for your family, or bringing a dish to a potluck, these chicken tenders are always a hit.
Ingredients Needed
Essential Ingredients for the Chicken Tenders
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this recipe to life:
- Chicken Tenders: The star of the dish, these are lean and cook quickly.
- Bacon: Adds smokiness and a crispy texture.
- Brown Sugar: The key to the sweet caramelized coating.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory depth of the flavor.
- Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky kick.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning and balance.
Selecting the Best Bacon for This Recipe
The bacon you choose matters. Here are some tips:
- Thickness: Go for regular-cut bacon rather than thick-cut, as it wraps more easily around the chicken and crisps up better.
- Smoked Bacon: Hickory or applewood-smoked bacon adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Low-Sodium Option: If you’re concerned about saltiness, opt for low-sodium bacon to balance the sweetness.
The Role of Brown Sugar and Spices
- Brown Sugar: Creates a sticky, sweet glaze as it melts during baking.
- Spices: Garlic powder and paprika provide a savory contrast to the sweetness, ensuring the flavors are well-balanced. You can also add a pinch of cayenne for a hint of heat.
Step-by-Step About Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Making bacon brown sugar chicken tenders is easier than you might think. With just a few simple steps, you can transform basic ingredients into a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Preparing the Chicken Tenders
- Clean and Dry the Chicken: Rinse the chicken tenders under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the bacon stick better and ensures even cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Lightly sprinkle both sides of each chicken tender with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. These seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and provide a delicious base.
Wrapping the Chicken in Bacon
- Choose Your Bacon: Use regular-cut bacon for easy wrapping. If your bacon strips are long, you can trim them slightly to avoid overlapping too much.
- Wrap Each Tender: Take a strip of bacon and wrap it tightly around each chicken tender. Start at one end and spiral the bacon down to cover the entire piece of chicken. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if needed to keep it in place.
Coating with Brown Sugar Mixture
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl or plate, mix the brown sugar with a pinch of paprika and garlic powder. If you like a touch of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Coat the Tenders: Roll each bacon-wrapped chicken tender in the brown sugar mixture, ensuring an even coating. The sugar will caramelize beautifully as the tenders bake, creating a sticky, golden glaze.
Baking to Perfection
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the sheet to allow air to circulate and crisp up the bacon.
- Arrange the Tenders: Place the coated chicken tenders on the wire rack, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking.
- Bake: Bake the tenders for 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure the bacon crisps evenly on all sides.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: For an even crispier finish, broil the tenders for 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning the sugar.
Tips for Perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
How to Achieve Crispy Bacon Without Overcooking
- Use a Wire Rack: Elevating the tenders on a wire rack prevents them from sitting in rendered bacon fat, allowing the bacon to crisp up evenly.
- Broil at the End: A quick broil adds crispiness to the bacon without overcooking the chicken.
- Thin Bacon Strips: Opt for regular-cut bacon, as thick-cut bacon may stay chewy and not crisp properly.
Balancing Sweetness and Savory Flavors
- Adjust the Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar or mix it with a bit of smoked paprika for more depth.
- Season Generously: Don’t skip the salt, pepper, and garlic powder, as they balance the sweetness of the sugar glaze.
Preventing the Chicken from Drying Out
- Watch the Cooking Time: Chicken tenders cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. They’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Wrap Tightly: Wrapping the chicken securely in bacon helps lock in moisture, keeping the meat juicy.
Common Problems and Solutions
Why Is My Bacon Not Crispy?
- Problem: The bacon didn’t crisp during baking.
- Solution: Make sure to bake the tenders on a wire rack to allow airflow. Use regular-cut bacon instead of thick-cut, and broil the tenders for a minute or two after baking.
How to Avoid Overly Sweet Tenders
- Problem: The brown sugar glaze is too sweet.
- Solution: Reduce the amount of sugar or add savory spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne to balance the flavors.
Troubleshooting Uneven Cooking
- Problem: Some tenders are undercooked while others are overdone.
- Solution: Choose chicken tenders of similar size for even cooking, and rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking to account for oven hot spots.
Variations of the Recipe
One of the best things about bacon brown sugar chicken tenders is how easy they are to customize. Whether you prefer a spicy twist, a touch of maple, or a healthier version, this recipe can be adapted to suit your taste.
Spicy Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Add Heat to the Coating: Mix cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the brown sugar for a sweet-and-spicy kick.
- Spicy Dipping Sauce: Serve the tenders with a side of spicy mayo or sriracha-infused ranch for an extra layer of flavor.
Maple-Glazed Bacon Chicken Tenders
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Replace part of the brown sugar with pure maple syrup, or drizzle syrup over the tenders during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Maple Bacon: Use maple-flavored bacon to enhance the sweetness and add a subtle smokiness.
Keto-Friendly Version
- Use a Sugar Substitute: Swap brown sugar for a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
- Skip the Breadcrumbs: Ensure your seasoning blend is free of added carbs for a keto-approved dish.
Serving Suggestions
How you serve bacon brown sugar chicken tenders can take the dish to the next level. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a party appetizer, presentation and pairings matter.
Side Dishes to Pair with Chicken Tenders
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory tenders.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a lighter option.
- Mac and Cheese: Indulge in the ultimate comfort food pairing with creamy, cheesy macaroni.
Plating and Presentation Ideas
- Rustic Style: Serve the tenders on a wooden platter with small bowls of dipping sauces for a casual gathering.
- Elegant Touch: Arrange the tenders on a white plate, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a pop of color.
- Party-Ready: Serve them as bite-sized appetizers with toothpicks and a variety of sauces for dipping.
Best Dipping Sauces for Extra Flavor
- Honey Mustard: A classic pairing that complements the sweet glaze.
- BBQ Sauce: Adds a smoky, tangy flavor to balance the dish.
- Ranch Dressing: A creamy, cool contrast to the bold flavors of the tenders.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional profile of bacon brown sugar chicken tenders can help you enjoy them mindfully.
Calorie and Macronutrient Breakdown
For one serving (2-3 tenders):
- Calories: 300-400
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams (from brown sugar)
- Fat: 15-20 grams (from bacon)
How to Make the Recipe Healthier
- Lean Protein: Use chicken breast strips instead of pre-cut tenders for better portion control.
- Turkey Bacon: Swap traditional bacon for turkey bacon to reduce fat and calories.
- Sugar Alternatives: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol for a lower-calorie glaze.
Storing and Reheating Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
If you have leftovers, don’t worry—these chicken tenders are just as tasty the next day when stored and reheated properly.
Proper Storage Techniques for Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Place cooled tenders in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked bacon-wrapped tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen when ready.
Reheating Without Losing Flavor
- Oven: Reheat tenders at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to retain their crispness.
- Air Fryer: Use an air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to crisp up the bacon.
- Microwave: If in a hurry, microwave in 30-second intervals, though this may soften the bacon.
Can You Freeze This Recipe?
Yes! To freeze cooked tenders, let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs About Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon works well and is a great lower-fat alternative. Just keep in mind that it may not crisp as much as pork bacon, so broiling at the end is essential.
Are These Chicken Tenders Spicy?
Not by default, but you can easily make them spicy by adding cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the brown sugar mixture.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Without Drying Them Out?
The best way to reheat is in the oven or air fryer, as these methods maintain the crispy texture of the bacon while keeping the chicken moist. Avoid reheating for too long, as this can dry out the meat.
Conclusion
Why You’ll Love Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Bacon brown sugar chicken tenders are everything you want in a dish: easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick dinner, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers on all fronts. The combination of crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and sweet caramelized glaze is truly unbeatable.
What’s more, this dish invites creativity. With countless variations and serving options, you can tailor it to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to wow everyone at the table with this sweet and savory masterpiece. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!