Hello, food enthusiasts! Are you looking for a recipe that combines the savory goodness of bacon with a hint of sweetness? Look no further. These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the perfect crowd-pleasing dish, whether for a family dinner, party appetizer, or game-day snack. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that’s sure to have everyone asking for seconds!
Introduction
The combination of crispy bacon and juicy chicken is a match made in heaven. This recipe takes it up a notch by adding a sweet and smoky brown sugar coating, giving these tenders an incredible depth of flavor. The mix of spices enhances the natural taste of the chicken, while the bacon adds a delightful crunch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both easy and impressive. Let’s explore how to prepare these delicious chicken tenders!
Ingredients
To make these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, you’ll need:
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces)
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
These ingredients combine to create a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that will make this dish unforgettable.
How to Make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Take each chicken tender and wrap it with a slice of cooked bacon. Once wrapped, roll the bacon-wrapped chicken in the brown sugar mixture to coat it evenly. The brown sugar mixture will caramelize in the oven, giving the tenders a sweet and smoky crust.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out to ensure even cooking.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C) and the bacon is crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, especially toward the end of the cooking time.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken tenders cool slightly before serving. The coating will firm up as it cools, creating a delicious glaze.
Helpful Tips
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the brown sugar mixture.
- To ensure the bacon stays crispy, use thin-cut bacon rather than thick-cut. It wraps more easily and crisps up faster in the oven.
- If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly or replace it with a sugar substitute.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe temperature without overcooking, which can dry it out.
Cooking Tips
For a more indulgent variation, try brushing the chicken with a layer of barbecue sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking. This adds an extra layer of flavor and enhances the smoky notes from the bacon.
If you’re making a large batch for a party, prepare the chicken tenders in advance by wrapping them with bacon and coating them in the brown sugar mixture. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
For even crispier bacon, you can pre-cook it slightly before wrapping the chicken. Just make sure it’s pliable enough to wrap around the tenders.
Serving Suggestions
These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or snack. Pair them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or a smoky barbecue sauce, to complement their flavor.
For a complete meal, serve these tenders alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. They also work wonderfully on a platter with other finger foods like sliders, deviled eggs, or stuffed jalapeños.
If you’re serving these at a party, garnish the plate with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and added freshness.
Nutritional Information
These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also provide a good balance of protein and flavor. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional content per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 12g
- Vitamin A: 5%
- Calcium: 2%
- Iron: 4%
This dish is a satisfying treat that’s worth every bite!
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: To reheat, place the tenders on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For a quicker option, you can use the microwave, but the bacon may lose some of its crispiness.
Freezing: If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap each tender individually in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken tenders?
Yes, chicken thighs work well as a substitute. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may take slightly longer to cook.
Can I use turkey bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative for a lower-fat version. Just keep in mind it may not crisp up as much as regular bacon.
What’s the best way to keep the bacon from unraveling?
To secure the bacon, you can use toothpicks. Just remember to remove them before serving.
Can I make these on a grill?
Yes, these tenders can be cooked on a grill for an added smoky flavor. Just be sure to use indirect heat to prevent burning the sugar coating.
Related Recipes
If you love this recipe, you might enjoy these other crowd-pleasers:
- Sweet and Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
- Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Wings
- Maple Glazed Pork Tenderloin
- Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Dip
Conclusion
There you have it—Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors! This recipe is simple yet impressive, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these chicken tenders are guaranteed to be a hit. Try them out, and don’t forget to share your feedback and variations. Enjoy every delicious bite!