Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a deliciously sweet and savory dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Coated in a blend of brown sugar and spices, then topped with crispy bacon, these tenders are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces)
8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Directions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease with cooking spray or oil.
2. Prepare the Seasoning:
   In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Season the Chicken Tenders:
   Place the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the chicken tenders, coating them well.
4. Add the Bacon:
   Sprinkle the crumbled bacon pieces over the seasoned chicken tenders.
5. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
6. Serve:
   Serve the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders hot, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional flavor.
• Different Meats: Substitute chicken tenders with chicken thighs or pork tenderloins for a different texture and taste.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain crispiness.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
   Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and cooking.
2. What type of bacon works best?
   Any type of bacon will work, but thick-cut bacon will give you extra crispiness.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any additional seasoning or sauces are also gluten-free.
4. Can I bake these in an air fryer?
   Yes, cook them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, checking for doneness.
5. How do I know when the chicken is done?
   Chicken tenders should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can season the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
7. What can I serve with these tenders?
   They pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard, as well as sides like fries or a fresh salad.
8. Can I use brown sugar substitute?
   Yes, you can use a sugar substitute that measures like brown sugar for a lower-calorie version.
9. What if I don’t have paprika?
   You can substitute it with smoked paprika or chili powder for a different flavor profile.
10. How do I store leftover bacon?
    Keep leftover crumbled bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are an irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors, making them a perfect dish for any occasion. Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the delightful crunch and sweetness in every bite!

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