Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food, blending sweetness and savory delight into one irresistible dish. Imagine tender pieces of chicken wrapped in crispy bacon, coated in a brown sugar mixture that caramelizes in the oven. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses guests, making it a perfect addition to weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family.
Why you’ll love this dish
This dish is a winner for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s simple to prepare, requiring minimal cooking skills, which makes it perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. It’s a budget-friendly recipe, too, using just a few affordable ingredients that are often already in your pantry. Moreover, Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are kid-approved, making them a fantastic option for family dinners. Their delightful combination of flavors makes them suitable for any occasion—from casual weeknight meals to festive gatherings.
"I made these for a game night, and they were a huge hit! Everyone was asking for the recipe. The balance of sweet and savory is just perfect!"
The cooking process explained
Making Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. You’ll start by prepping all your ingredients, then dip, wrap, and bake. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes gourmet. It’s a great option for those busy nights when you want something delectable without spending hours in the kitchen.
What you’ll need
To whip up this tasty treat, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to experiment with ingredients—turkey bacon can be a lighter alternative, for example, and you can adjust spices to suit your flavor preferences.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Take each chicken tender and wrap it with a slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
- Dip each bacon-wrapped tender into the brown sugar mixture until well coated.
- Arrange the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
What to serve it with
These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders can stand alone or shine alongside various sides. Consider serving them with creamy mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. If you’re hosting a party, they pair perfectly with finger foods like dips, chips, or even a charcuterie board. For drinks, a chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade complements the sweetness beautifully.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you find yourself with extra tenders, no worries! To store, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to save them for later, consider freezing them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly and store them in a freezer-safe container. When it’s time to eat again, reheat in the oven for best results to maintain that crispy goodness.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best outcome, ensure your chicken tenders are patted dry before wrapping them in bacon; this helps the bacon get crispy. You might also consider scoring the bacon slightly to help it adhere better to the chicken. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture for a delightful kick.
Creative twists
If you’re feeling adventurous, try altering the flavors! You could swap the garlic powder for onion powder for a slightly different taste. Adding some chopped herbs, like rosemary or thyme, offers a lovely aromatic touch. Or try using different sugars, such as maple sugar or coconut sugar, for unique sweetness variations.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare these chicken tenders?
Prep and cook time combined is roughly 30-35 minutes, making it a quick option for dinner.Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just cut the chicken breasts into strips that are similar in size to tenders for even cooking.What’s the best way to reheating leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Enjoy the delightful experience of making and savoring Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders — a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Take each chicken tender and wrap it with a slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
- Dip each bacon-wrapped tender into the brown sugar mixture until well coated.
- Arrange the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
