Name: Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: Sweet, Crispy Perfection
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Chicken Tenders (The star of the dish); 8 slices Bacon (Thin-cut preferred; turkey bacon is a lighter alternative); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Light brown sugar enhances taste); 1 tsp Paprika (Adds color and smokiness); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Gentle essence); 1 tsp Onion Powder (Boosts savory depth); 1/2 tsp Salt (Enhances flavor); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (Adds a subtle kick)

The aroma of sizzling bacon wafting through the kitchen is almost a siren call for dinner, isn’t it? When craving something restaurant-quality yet easy to whip up at home, these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders come to the rescue. In just 30 minutes, you can take simple chicken tenders and transform them with a sweet-and-savory glaze that’s impossible to resist. Not only are they perfect for those hectic weeknights, but they also elevate any family meal with a delightfully crispy twist. Plus, there’s a lighter version using turkey bacon if you’re in the mood for something a bit healthier. Ready to impress even the pickiest eaters at your table? Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe!

Why are Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders irresistible?

Crispy Coating: The smoky bacon wrapping each tender forms a crunchy outer layer that keeps the juicy chicken inside succulent.

Sweet & Savory Delight: The brown sugar creates a mouthwatering glaze that perfectly balances sweetness and savory notes, making each bite a delight!

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, these tenders are your go-to solution for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.

Versatile Alternatives: Enjoy the original recipe or switch to turkey bacon for a lighter option, plus you can easily air-fry for a health-conscious twist!

Crowd-Pleaser: With their incredible flavor, these tenders will appeal to both kids and adults, making them perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Elevate your dinner table with these fabulous tenders and check out our other tasty recipes like Cowboy Butter Chicken Wings or Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles for more delicious home-cooked options!

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Chicken Tenders – The star of the dish, providing a juicy protein base that stays tender and flavorful.

For the Bacon

• Bacon – Choose thin-cut for optimal crispiness; turkey bacon is a great lighter alternative that still delivers flavor.

For the Glaze

• Brown Sugar – Adds a luscious sweetness that caramelizes beautifully; light brown sugar enhances the glaze’s taste.
• Paprika – Introduces a pop of color and mild smokiness to balance flavors.
• Garlic Powder – Offers a gentle garlic essence without overpowering the dish.
• Onion Powder – Boosts the savory depth of the tenders.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor and balancing the sweetness.
• Black Pepper – Adds a subtle kick that contrasts deliciously with the sweet glaze.

For Baking

• Cooking Spray or Oil – Prevents the tenders from sticking to the baking dish, ensuring easy serving.

Transform these ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal with our Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders!👩‍🍳

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms, grease a baking dish with cooking spray or lightly coat it with oil. This ensures that the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders won’t stick while they bake. You can also line the dish with foil for easier cleanup if desired.

Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, add your chicken tenders. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, paprika, and black pepper over the chicken. Toss the tenders well to coat them evenly with the seasonings. Then, add the brown sugar and mix again until all the chicken is beautifully coated, creating the sweet glaze that will shine after baking.

Step 3: Wrap the Chicken
Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each seasoned chicken tender, starting from one end and finishing at the other, with the seam side facing down in the baking dish. Make sure that the tenders have enough space between them for air circulation, which will help the bacon crisp up nicely.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the bacon appears crispy and golden. If you desire extra caramelization, broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.

Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let the Chicken Tenders rest for 2-3 minutes. This resting period will help the juices redistribute within the chicken, keeping it juicy and flavorful. Serve these delicious Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders while warm, and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep! You can season the chicken tenders and wrap them with bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps of the recipe, then place the baking dish covered in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to serve, remove them from the fridge and bake as directed, adding an extra few minutes if they are cold from refrigeration. This approach saves time on busy nights, allowing you to have a delicious dinner with minimal effort. Trust me, they will still come out just as delicious and perfectly crispy!

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Variations

Get ready to shake things up! These delightful tenders can be customized to suit your cravings and dietary needs.

Turkey Bacon: Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon to achieve a leaner, yet still flavorful, version of this dish. It’s just as satisfying with fewer calories!
Sweet Maple Twist: Reduce the brown sugar to ¼ cup and mix in 1 tablespoon of maple syrup for a unique, lighter sweetness that dances on your palate.
Air-Fryer Option: For a quick and crispy bash, try cooking the tenders in an air fryer at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for golden perfection.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the seasoning mix for an exciting heat that balances beautifully with sweetness.
Vegetable Medley: Serve your tenders alongside roasted or sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini, for a touch of color and nutrition.
Skewer Setup: Make these tenders even more fun by threading them onto skewers with cherry tomatoes or bell pepper chunks for a picnic-friendly option.
Crispy Coating: Dredge the chicken tenders in crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of brown sugar before wrapping with bacon for an extra crunch!
Dip It Good: Serve alongside a honey mustard or spicy ranch dipping sauce to elevate your tender experience and please your guests.

Let your imagination run wild with these variations, and don’t forget to check out my classic favorites like French Onion Chicken Rice Bake or Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich for more mouthwatering ideas!

Expert Tips for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Crispy Perfection: Use a wire rack in the baking dish to elevate the tenders, allowing air to circulate and bacon to crisp evenly.
Don’t Overcrowd: Be sure to space the chicken tenders apart; overcrowding will result in steaming rather than crisping, diminishing that delicious texture.
Bacon Thickness Matters: If using thick-cut bacon, remember to increase the baking time. You may also need to broil carefully to avoid undercooked bacon.
Resting Is Key: Allow the tenders to rest for a few minutes after removing them from the oven. This helps lock in moisture for a juicier bite.
Mix It Up: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try different seasonings and pair them with dipping sauces to create your own twist on classic Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders.

What to Serve with Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

A delightful meal awaits, where crispy goodness meets sweet flavors to transform your dinner table.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the chicken, providing a creamy texture that complements each crunchy bite. The vibrant color will brighten your plate and your mood!
Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the savory tenders. This combination ensures a delightful balance in every meal.
Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These tender sprouts enhance the sweet notes of the chicken, creating an enchanting savory-sweet relationship. Roasting brings out their natural flavors, making them a perfect sidekick in this delicious pairing.
Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: The garlicky, cheesy crunch of oven-roasted asparagus provides an appetizing bite, elevating the whole meal experience. A touch of zest offsets the sweetness of the Chicken Tenders, making it an irresistible combo.
Cold Beverage Pairing: A chilled glass of sparkling apple cider or sweet iced tea will refresh your palate, offering a vibrant contrast to the barbecue-gone-gourmet flavors of the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, a warm, gooey chocolate lava cake promises to satisfy any sweet tooth left wanting after dinner. The richness cuts through the earlier flavors, adding a sweet ending to your delightful meal.

Storage Tips for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Room Temperature: Leftovers should not be left out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store any leftover Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Re-crisp in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes when ready to enjoy again.
Freezer: Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or place them in a freezer-safe container to maintain quality. They can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the tenders in the oven rather than the microwave to restore their crispy texture and delicious flavors.

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken tenders are the star ingredient because they are juicy and tender. You can also use skinless chicken breast strips for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.

How should I store leftovers?
After enjoying your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to indulge again, re-crisp them in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes to restore that delicious texture.

Can I freeze Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
Yes, you can! Wrap leftover tenders tightly in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for optimal results.

What should I do if my bacon isn’t crispy?
If your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders come out with soggy bacon, the most likely culprit is overcrowding during cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for air to circulate around each tender in the baking dish. If you’re using thick-cut bacon, you may need to increase the baking time slightly or broil carefully for that desired crisp.

Are the chicken tenders gluten-free?
Good news! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that all your ingredients (like bacon and brown sugar) are certified gluten-free. Be mindful of cross-contamination if you’re preparing food for anyone with a gluten allergy.

Can I use turkey bacon instead?
Very much! Turkey bacon is a wonderful alternative for a lighter version of these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. It will deliver that delicious smoky flavor while reducing fat content, making it a great option for those watching their calories.