Bacon Brown Sugar ChickenTenders

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Set the temperature: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This setup will help the bacon cook evenly and allow the excess fat to drip away.

Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Brown Sugar Mixture

1. Mix the spices: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder (if using). Stir well to mix.

Step 3: Wrap the Chicken Tenders

1. Wrap each tender: Take one chicken tender and wrap a slice of bacon around it, securing it with a toothpick. If the bacon slice is not long enough to cover the entire chicken tender, you can use an additional slice of bacon.
2. Coat with the brown sugar mixture: Roll each bacon-wrapped chicken tender in the seasoned brown sugar mixture, pressing lightly to help the sugar adhere to the bacon.

Step 4: Bake

1. Place on the wire rack: Arrange the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on the prepared wire rack, spacing them out evenly.
2. Bake: Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. If you prefer extra-crispy bacon, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking (keep a close eye to prevent burning).

Step 5: Serve

1. Cool slightly: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes to allow the glaze to set.
2. Remove toothpicks: Take out the toothpicks before serving to make the tenders easier to eat.
3. Serve warm: Arrange the tenders on a platter and enjoy them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish.

Tips for Making the Best Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

• Use thin-cut bacon: Thin bacon crisps up better and cooks faster than thick-cut bacon. If using thick-cut bacon, increase the cooking time or partially cook it before wrapping the chicken.
• Choose fresh chicken tenders: Fresh, high-quality chicken tenders ensure a juicy, flavorful result. You can also cut chicken breasts into strips if tenders are unavailable.
• Season to taste: The spice mix can be adjusted to your preference. For more heat, add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Line the baking sheet: Using parchment paper or foil makes cleanup much easier, as the caramelized brown sugar can be sticky.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of bacon and brown sugar creates a beautifully balanced flavor profile: the bacon brings a salty, savory note while the brown sugar adds sweetness that caramelizes during baking, forming a delicious glaze. The spices complement both the chicken and the bacon, adding depth and a hint of smokiness. This recipe is not only flavorful but also incredibly simple, using ingredients that are easy to find and quick to prepare.

Perfect Pairings

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some suggestions for pairings that will elevate your meal:

• Dipping sauces: Serve with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing to enhance the flavor.
• Side dishes: Pair with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a more substantial meal.
• Appetizer platter: Include them on a party platter with other appetizers like stuffed mushrooms, cheese cubes, or deviled eggs.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: To maintain the crispiness of the bacon, reheat the tenders in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon soggy.

Variations

• Maple Bacon Chicken Tenders: Replace the brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer, more complex sweetness.
• Spicy Bacon Brown Sugar Tenders: Add extra chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes to the brown sugar mixture for a spicy kick.
• Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites: Instead of using whole chicken tenders, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and wrap with bacon for a smaller, appetizer-friendly version.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a wonderful combination of flavors and textures that bring the best of sweet, savory, and smoky together in one dish. They’re perfect for everything from game day gatherings and potlucks to family dinners. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the bold taste, makes it a go-to choice for impressing guests or just indulging in something delicious.

Conclusion

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a testament to the idea that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most memorable. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it came straight out of a gourmet kitchen. The crispy bacon, tender chicken, and sweet brown sugar glaze will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or main course, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Give it a try, and savor the perfect blend of sweet and savory!