Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delicious treat that you won’t be able to resist! Imagine tender chicken pieces wrapped in crispy bacon, coated in a sweet and savory brown sugar mixture. The combination of flavors makes for a dish that both kids and adults will adore. These tenders are perfect for family dinners, game nights, or even parties, bringing a festive mood to any occasion.

The moment you take a bite, you’ll experience the satisfying crunch of the bacon followed by the juicy chicken and rich sweetness of brown sugar. This article will guide you through the easy preparation and cooking steps, ensuring you create these mouthwatering tenders effortlessly. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: You’ll use simple and wholesome items that make the dish flavorful.
Ease of Preparation: Quick steps mean you can get cooking fast!
Nutrition: Chicken provides lean protein while bacon adds a tasty touch.
Versatility: Perfect for appetizers, main dishes, or snack time.
Presentation: The golden-brown, crispy tenders look great on any plate.

You’ll love how easy and delicious this recipe is!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Note that times may vary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pound chicken tenders
8 slices bacon
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick if needed.
Roll the bacon-wrapped tenders in the brown sugar mixture until fully coated.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the tenders for 2-3 minutes on each side until the bacon is crispy.
Transfer the seared tenders to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve

Presentation: Serve on a platter for a lovely display.
Accompaniments: Pair with dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard.
Portions: Cut tenders into smaller pieces for easy sharing.
Beverage Pairing: They go well with soda, iced tea, or a light beer.

Enjoy your meal with these simple serving suggestions!

Additional Tips

Flavor Enhancement: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Customization: Try using turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with vegetables or a fresh salad for balance.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Chicken Tenders: Add hot sauce or chili powder to the brown sugar mixture for heat.
Herb-Infused Version: Sprinkle dried herbs like rosemary or thyme over the bacon for added flavor.
BBQ Twist: Brush the tenders with BBQ sauce before rolling them in brown sugar.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze, place the cooked tenders in a freezer-safe bag; they’ll stay good for about 2 months.

Special Equipment

Baking dish
Skillet
Mixing bowl
Toothpicks
Tongs

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, but thaw them first for best results.

2. Is this recipe healthy?
While delicious, this dish is best enjoyed in moderation due to the bacon and sugar.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and cook them, then store in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

4. Can I customize the flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite spices or marinades.

5. What are other cooking methods?
You can grill them for an added smoky flavor!

Conclusion

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delightful combination of sweet and savory that everyone will love. With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and impressive results, they’re perfect for any gathering or cozy meal at home. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this mouthwatering dish!