Sweet and Savory Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

There’s something irresistible about the combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Sweet and savory bacon brown sugar chicken tenders take this flavor trio to the next level, creating a dish that’s perfect for parties, family dinners, or even as a mid-week treat. Imagine juicy chicken tenders wrapped in crispy bacon, coated with caramelized brown sugar—it’s a mouthwatering masterpiece that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Whether you’re impressing guests or indulging in comfort food, these chicken tenders are guaranteed to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

• Perfect Flavor Balance: Sweet brown sugar caramelizes beautifully on smoky bacon, creating a glaze that pairs perfectly with savory chicken.
• Easy to Make: With only a few ingredients, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for entertaining.
• Versatile: Serve these tenders as an appetizer, snack, or main dish with your favorite dipping sauces.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Who can resist the combination of crispy bacon and juicy chicken? These tenders are always a hit at gatherings.

Ingredients for Sweet and Savory Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts	2
Light brown sugar	½ cup
Kosher salt	½ teaspoon
Black pepper	⅛ teaspoon
Thick-cut bacon	8 strips

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat the Oven
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top to allow for even cooking.
2. Slice and Season the Chicken
   • Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips, about 1–1.5 inches wide.
   • Season the chicken strips with kosher salt and black pepper on all sides.

Step 2: Wrap the Chicken in Bacon

1. Wrap Each Strip
   • Wrap each chicken strip tightly with a slice of thick-cut bacon, slightly overlapping the edges to keep the bacon secure.
   • Use a toothpick to hold the bacon in place if necessary.

Step 3: Coat with Brown Sugar

1. Prepare the Sugar Coating
   • Place the light brown sugar in a shallow dish.
2. Roll and Coat
   • Roll each bacon-wrapped chicken strip in the sugar, pressing gently to coat evenly.
   • Ensure the entire tender is coated to help create a caramelized glaze during baking.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken Tenders

1. Arrange on the Rack
   • Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared wire rack, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
2. Bake
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway through to ensure even cooking.
   • Check for doneness by ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Optional Broiling for Crispiness

• For extra crispy bacon, switch your oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.
• Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Cool Slightly
   • Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
2. Pair with Dipping Sauces
   • Serve with your favorite dips, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or spicy aioli.

Tips for Perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

• Use a Wire Rack: Elevating the tenders allows the bacon to crisp up evenly and prevents sogginess.
• Thick-Cut Bacon: Thicker slices hold their shape better and deliver a meatier bite.
• Monitor the Broiling: If broiling, stay close to the oven to avoid burning the brown sugar glaze.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Creative Variations

1. Spicy Kick
   • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the brown sugar for a sweet and spicy twist.
2. Herb-Infused
   • Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme over the tenders before baking for an earthy flavor.
3. Maple-Glazed
   • Drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the bacon-wrapped tenders for an extra layer of sweetness.
4. Parmesan Crust
   • Add grated Parmesan cheese to the brown sugar mixture for a savory coating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Tender
Calories	180
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	3g
Carbohydrates	10g
Sugar	8g
Protein	16g

FAQs About Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

1. Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders a few hours in advance. Wrap and coat them, then store in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

2. Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon works well, but keep in mind it may not crisp up as much as pork bacon.

3. What dipping sauces pair best with these tenders?
Honey mustard, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a spicy aioli complement these tenders beautifully.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispiness.

5. Can I freeze these tenders?
Yes, freeze cooked tenders in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

6. Why is my bacon not crispy?
Using a wire rack and broiling for the last few minutes of cooking will help achieve crispy bacon.

Why You’ll Want to Make These Tenders Again and Again

The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and caramelized brown sugar glaze is nothing short of heavenly. These Sweet and Savory Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are not only easy to make but are also packed with flavors that leave everyone asking for seconds.

Get Started Today!

With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and experience the magic of sweet and savory bacon-wrapped chicken tenders.

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