Indulge in the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders—a savory and sweet treat that’s sure to impress. With crispy bacon and a sweet brown sugar coating, these tenders are perfect for a delicious and easy dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 12 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with olive oil.
- Prepare Coating: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Wrap Chicken: Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed. Press the bacon-wrapped tenders into the brown sugar mixture, coating well.
- Bake: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Serving Size: 1 tender
- Calorie Count: 250 kcal per tender
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture for a spicy twist.
- Maple Bacon: Substitute maple syrup for the brown sugar for a different sweet flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetarian bacon as a substitute for a meat-free version.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, cut the chicken breasts into strips to use in place of tenders. - How do I ensure the bacon is crispy?
Bake the tenders on a wire rack set over the baking sheet to allow fat to drip away, ensuring crispiness. - Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and bake them ahead of time, then store and reheat as needed. - What can I serve with these tenders?
They pair well with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. - Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used for a lower fat option, but it may not crisp up as much. - How do I avoid the bacon from becoming soggy?
Ensure the baking sheet is well-greased and consider using a wire rack to keep the bacon crisp. - Can I grill these instead of baking?
Yes, grill over medium heat, turning occasionally until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through. - How can I make these spicier?
Add hot sauce or crushed red pepper to the brown sugar mixture for extra heat. - Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, coconut sugar or white sugar can be used in place of brown sugar for different flavors. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness, or use a skillet over medium heat.
Conclusion
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders offer a delectable combination of sweet and savory flavors that make for a satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these tenders are sure to be a hit!