Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders is a dish that you simply must try! Featuring juicy chicken strips wrapped delicately in crispy bacon and infused with a sweet brown sugar glaze, it’s the ideal combination of savory and sweet that can satisfy any craving. This delightful recipe not only cooks up quickly but also packs a punch of flavors that will leave you reaching for more. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, game day, or a simple weeknight meal, these chicken tenders are sure to impress everyone at the table.
When you take that first bite of Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, the enchanting aroma of crispy bacon and caramelized sugar fills the air, creating anticipation for what’s to come. The tender chicken is perfectly balanced by the salty-sweet flavor combination that makes this dish absolutely irresistible. It’s an experience that you won’t want to miss. In this guide, you’ll learn how to create this amazing recipe, discover its irresistible charm, and impress your loved ones with just a few simple ingredients.
Get ready to dive into the steps required to create these flavorful tenders that are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with mouthwatering tastes. This recipe is a wonderful addition to your weeknight meals or special occasions. Let’s get into the delicious details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that brings joy and satisfaction. Here are some reasons to love this recipe:
1. Flavor Explosion – The harmony of sweet and savory will tantalize your taste buds.
2. Quick and Easy – With minimal prep and cook time, you can have this gourmet meal ready in no time.
3. Kid-Friendly – The combination of bacon and sweetness makes this dish a hit with kids and adults alike.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a casual dinner, a party, or a picnic, it fits effortlessly into any scenario.
5. Few Ingredients – You likely already have most of the ingredients at home, making it accessible.
6. Impressive Presentation – The golden-brown tenders look fantastic on any plate and can wow your guests.
With these fantastic reasons, you can see why Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders have become a favorite in many households. The delightful flavors and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Making Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders is efficient! Here’s a breakdown of the timing for preparing this dish:
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
– Total Time: 40-45 minutes
This timeline allows you to whip up these incredible chicken tenders without spending your entire evening in the kitchen.

Ingredients

– 1 pound chicken tenders
– 8 slices of bacon
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders is simple! Just follow these steps:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare Dry Rub: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt together until well combined.
3. Wrap Chicken: Take a chicken tender and rub a generous amount of the dry mix over it. Then, carefully wrap one slice of bacon around the chicken, securing it at the ends. Repeat this for all chicken tenders.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the wrapped chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out for even cooking.
5. Drizzle Olive Oil (optional): For extra flavor, drizzle a little olive oil over the tenders before baking.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
7. Glaze for Extra Flavor: For an additional layer of sweetness, you can sprinkle some extra brown sugar on top of the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking.
8. Rest: Once finished, remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices.
Your amazing Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders will be ready to enjoy in no time!

How to Serve

Presenting Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders is just as exciting as making them. Here are some tips for serving:
1. Plating: Arrange the tenders neatly on a serving platter. You can garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for added color.
2. Dips & Sauces: Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard to enhance the flavor experience.
3. Accompaniments: Pair with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
4. Portion Size: Offer several tenders per person, as they are likely to ask for seconds!
5. Fun Serving Style: Use toothpicks to serve them at parties for a finger-food approach that guests will love.
By focusing on presentation and accompaniments, you can turn simple chicken tenders into a wonderful feast that anyone would be happy to indulge in. Enjoy every crispy, sweet bite of your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders!

Additional Tips

– Use High-Quality Bacon: The flavor of your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders greatly depends on the bacon you choose. Opt for thick-cut bacon for a heartier bite.
– Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken tenders in advance. Wrap them in bacon and store them in the refrigerator. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to cook.
– Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the dry rub ingredients. Adding a pinch of cayenne can give your chicken a delightful kick.

Recipe Variation

Get creative with your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders! Here are some variations to consider:
1. Spicy Variation: Mix some crushed red pepper flakes into the brown sugar mixture for a spicy twist.
2. Herb-Infused Bacon: Use herbed bacon for an aromatic flavor. Rosemary or thyme bacon pairs wonderfully!
3. Honey Glaze: Before serving, drizzle some honey over the tenders for added sweetness.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
– Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked tenders. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They should last for up to 3 months. To cook, simply bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Special Equipment

To make your cooking experience easier, here are some tools you’d find helpful:
– Baking Sheet: A rimmed baking sheet is ideal for catching any drippings.
– Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
– Meat Thermometer: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but you’ll want to cut them into strips to ensure proper cooking.
What should I do if my tenders are not crispy?
If the bacon isn’t crispy enough, you can broil the tenders for 2-3 minutes after baking, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These tenders can be prepared in advance and refrigerated or frozen for easy meal prep options.
Can I substitute brown sugar with another sweetener?
You can use coconut sugar or maple syrup, but this may alter the overall flavor and texture slightly.
What are some good side dishes to serve with the tenders?
Great sides include coleslaw, baked beans, or even sweet potato fries to complement the sweet and savory flavors of the tenders.

Conclusion

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delightful treat blending crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and a hint of sweetness. Their simplicity and rich flavors make them perfect for any gathering or a cozy family dinner. With easy preparation and a welcoming taste, this dish will surely leave a lasting impression. Enjoy every bite of these scrumptious tenders, and don’t forget to share with family and friends!

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