The aroma of crispy bacon sizzling in the oven is enough to pull anyone into the kitchen. That’s exactly what happened to me the first time I made these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. With just 5 ingredients and a simple prep, this recipe is not only a game day appetizer but also a quick crowd-pleaser ready in about 30 minutes. The perfect blend of salty, sweet, and savory, these tenders will surely redefine your snacking game. Imagine juicy chicken wrapped in a caramelized, bacon-coated hug, making them an irresistible treat for kids and adults alike. Whether watching the big game or enjoying a cozy night in, these tasty tenders are bound to be the star of your table. Ready to elevate your snack time with this mouthwatering delight? Let’s dive in!
Why are Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Best: With only 5 ingredients, this recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Irresistible Flavors: The combination of crispy bacon and sticky brown sugar creates a mouthwatering experience that balances sweet and savory in every bite.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for game days or parties, these tenders are sure to impress your guests. Pair them with creamy dips like ranch or honey mustard for an extra treat.
Quick Cooking Time: Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe saves you time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile Inspiration: Want to spice things up? Consider adding cayenne for heat or using these tenders as a salad topping for a delightful twist!
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Provides the structure and meatiness of the tenders; substitute with chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
• Thick-Cut Bacon – Adds a salty, smoky flavor and delightful crunch; choose thin bacon for a crispier texture without pre-cooking.
For the Seasoning
• Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and aids in caramelization for that signature sticky glaze; light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.
• Salt – Enhances flavor, so use sea salt or kosher salt for the best taste.
• Pepper – Adds warmth and spice; feel free to substitute with cayenne for a spicy kick in your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial to ensure your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders cook evenly, achieving that perfect crispiness. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients so everything is ready for assembly.
Step 2: Slice the Chicken
Next, take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them into tender-sized strips. Aim for about one inch in width to ensure they cook uniformly. The juicy chicken will serve as the perfect base for the deliciously sweet and savory coating that follows.
Step 3: Combine the Seasoning
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, salt, and pepper to make your seasoning mix. Toss the chicken strips in this mixture until they are thoroughly coated. The sticky brown sugar will adhere beautifully, setting the stage for a caramelized glaze as they bake.
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
It’s time to wrap! Take a slice of thick-cut bacon and neatly enclose each sugar-coated chicken strip, making sure to cover the chicken completely. This delightful bacon layer not only adds flavor but also keeps the tenders juicy.
Step 5: Arrange in Baking Dish
Place the wrapped chicken tenders in a baking dish, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Spacing them out is essential for the bacon to crisp up nicely. Arrange them in a single layer for that uniform cooking and ultimate texture you’ll love in your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, looking for the bacon to become crispy and the chicken to cook through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for perfectly safe and juicy tenders.
Step 7: Optional Sauce Drizzle
Once out of the oven, if desired, drizzle your favorite sauce over the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. Whether it’s barbecue sauce or a touch of honey, this extra layer can elevate the flavor even more.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Now that your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are ready, serve them warm alongside tasty dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard. Watch as your family and friends delight in the crispy, sweet indulgence of these irresistible tenders!
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Variations
Feel free to make these tender delights your own by customizing flavors and textures!
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the brown sugar mix for a thrilling heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
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Umami Boost: Incorporate Worcestershire or soy sauce into the seasoning for extra depth of flavor; the salty undertones enhance the overall taste.
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Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for a delightful aromatic twist. Fresh herbs can elevate your dish even further!
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Sweet & Tangy: Drizzle a mixture of honey and mustard before baking for an irresistible glaze that marries sweetness with tang.
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Gluten-Free: Swap out regular bacon for gluten-free bacon alternatives and use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free but still delicious.
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Serving Suggestion: Serve these tenders over a fresh salad or alongside creamy dips like avocado ranch for an extra layer of flavor.
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Dipped Delights: Consider dipping tenders in a spicy aioli or even a homemade peach salsa for a fresh and fruity combination. You’ll be amazed at how creativity can transform these!
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Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and keep them in your fridge for quick, weekday snacks. Perfect for busy schedules—just reheat and enjoy!
For more delicious ideas and comforting meals, check out my Crockpot Chicken Tortellini or Slow Cooker Chicken recipes!
What to Serve with Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
The delightful experience of enjoying these tenders can be enriched with some delicious side dishes and drinks that balance their sweet and savory flavors.
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Creamy Coleslaw: Refreshing and crunchy, coleslaw provides a cool counterpoint to the warm, crispy tenders, enhancing your meal with a satisfying texture.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these are great for soaking up any extra sauce from the tenders while adding a comforting touch to your game day spread.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the brown sugar glaze on the chicken, while offering a crisp, healthy crunch.
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Crisp Garden Salad: A light and vibrant toss of greens adds freshness, contrasting with the rich flavors of the tenders and balancing your plate perfectly.
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Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy and cheesy, this dip is a fantastic appetizer that complements the tenders without overshadowing their unique flavor.
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Beer or Cider: A chilled lager or fruity cider can cut through the richness of the bacon and sugar, making for a refreshing beverage pairing that keeps the festivities flowing.
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Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet finish, this light dessert is rich enough to satisfy cravings, yet airy enough not to overpower the taste of your savory meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken strips with the brown sugar seasoning up to 24 hours in advance, simply covering the bowl and refrigerating it until you’re ready to cook. The wrapped tenders can also be assembled and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispy quality, avoid overcrowding the baking dish, and when ready to serve, just pop them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until they’re sizzling and golden. Enjoy quick, hassle-free indulgence with these savory bites!
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Fridge: Store leftover Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for snacking!
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each tender in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 2 months, preserving that delicious flavor.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy. Avoid microwaving to maintain that perfect texture.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare these tenders ahead of time, storing them unbaked in the fridge for hours or even overnight before popping them in the oven!
Expert Tips for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
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Bacon Tips: Partially cook thick-cut bacon in the microwave for a few minutes to soften it. This will make wrapping around the chicken much easier.
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Spacing Matters: Ensure the tenders are arranged in a single layer in the baking dish. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy bacon instead of crispy perfection.
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Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm that chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees juicy tenders and safe eating.
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Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment! Mix in hot sauce with the brown sugar for heat or use soy sauce for an umami twist. These variations can elevate your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders even more.
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Serving Ideas: Pair these tenders with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or even a spicy aioli. This adds an exciting element to every bite!
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken works best for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts create a lean and tender bite. For a juicier option, consider using chicken thighs, which can add even more flavor to your tenders.
How should I store leftover chicken tenders?
After cooking, store your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their delicious taste while ensuring they stay fresh and flavorful.
Can I freeze Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap each chicken tender individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy texture.
What should I do if the bacon isn’t crispy after baking?
If you find that the bacon isn’t as crispy as you’d like, try partially cooking it in the microwave for a few minutes before wrapping it around the chicken. Additionally, ensure that the tenders are spaced out evenly in the baking dish to allow for proper air circulation, which promotes crispiness during cooking.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If serving to guests with dietary restrictions, be aware that bacon is high in sodium and fat. For a healthier twist, consider using turkey bacon. Always check for any allergies, especially with seasonings like salt and pepper, and adjust the recipe to make sure everyone can enjoy these delicious Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders!
Can I prepare these tenders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders in advance by assembling them and storing them unbaked in the fridge for several hours or overnight. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven as directed, and enjoy freshly baked tenders without the last-minute fuss!
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders for Irresistible Game Days
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Gather your ingredients while the oven heats up.
- Slice the chicken breasts into tender-sized strips, aiming for about one inch in width.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken strips in the mixture until thoroughly coated.
- Wrap each sugar-coated chicken strip in a slice of bacon, ensuring full coverage.
- Place the wrapped tenders in a baking dish, avoiding overcrowding for better crisping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crispy and chicken is fully cooked.
- If desired, drizzle sauce over the tenders after baking. Serve warm with dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard.
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