Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the ultimate sweet-and-savory appetizer! With just five simple ingredients and ready in 30 minutes, they’re sticky, smoky, salty, and perfect for game day, parties, or a fun family dinner. Crispy bacon wraps tender chicken strips while brown sugar caramelizes to perfection—absolutely irresistible!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Tenders
• For Garnish
• How to Make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare Chicken
• Step 3: Season & Coat
• Step 4: Wrap in Bacon
• Step 5: Top with Sugar
• Step 6: Bake
• Step 7: Serve Hot
• How to Serve Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
• On a Salad
• Over Rice
• With Waffles
• As Sliders
• Dipping Sauces
• How to Perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
• Best Side Dishes for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
• Reheating Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other meats for this recipe?
• What sides go well with Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
• How do I make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders healthier?
• Can I prepare these tenders ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of only 30 minutes, these tenders are perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet brown sugar and savory bacon creates a delicious flavor profile that will please any palate.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, on top of a salad, with rice, or even over waffles for a fun twist!
• Simple Ingredients: Made with just five common ingredients, you probably have everything you need right at home.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these tasty tenders, making them a hit at any family meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having everything on hand ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish or foil-lined baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish or foil-lined baking sheet: This allows for even cooking and easy cleanup.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl helps in combining ingredients effectively without mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for slicing chicken breasts evenly into tenders.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting chicken without damaging your countertops.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 strips bacon
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken

Slice each chicken breast into 4 long, thin strips. You should have a total of 8 tenders.

Step 3: Season & Coat

In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken strips in this mixture until they are well coated.

Step 4: Wrap in Bacon

Wrap each chicken tender with one strip of bacon. Arrange them neatly in a baking dish or place them on a foil-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Top with Sugar

Sprinkle any remaining brown sugar mixture over the wrapped chicken tenders to enhance their sweetness.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes. Ensure that the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes at the end—keeping a close eye on it!

Step 7: Serve Hot

Serve your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders hot from the oven. They make an excellent appetizer or can be enjoyed over salad, rice, or even waffles for a unique twist!

How to Serve Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

On a Salad

• A fresh garden salad topped with these chicken tenders adds a delightful crunch and sweetness. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette for an extra flavor kick.

Over Rice

• Serve the tenders over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. The rice absorbs the sticky sauce, making each bite irresistible.

With Waffles

• Pair these tenders with crispy waffles for a fun breakfast-for-dinner idea. Drizzle with maple syrup for that perfect sweet and savory combo.

As Sliders

• Cut the chicken tenders into smaller pieces and serve them on slider buns. Add some coleslaw for texture and flavor.

Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard to complement the flavors of the bacon and brown sugar.

How to Perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Achieving perfection with Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders is easy with a few tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your tenders turn out delicious every time.

• Use thick-cut bacon: Thicker bacon provides more flavor and ensures it crisps up nicely around the chicken.
• Pat chicken dry: Before seasoning, make sure to pat the chicken strips dry. This helps the brown sugar adhere better.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking dish: Give each tender space in the dish to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on your chicken tenders while baking. Ovens can vary, so adjust cooking time as needed for perfect results.
• Let rest before serving: Allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute for tender meat.

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Best Side Dishes for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Pairing side dishes with your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders enhances their flavor profile. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that complements the sweetness of the tenders.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the bacon-wrapped chicken.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter provides a vibrant pop of color and flavor alongside your tenders.
4. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds offer a nutty contrast that pairs well with this dish.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add another layer of sweetness while providing a satisfying crunch.
6. Macaroni and Cheese: This classic comfort food brings cheesy goodness that complements the flavors of your chicken tenders beautifully.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Slightly charred Brussels sprouts add depth and earthiness to your meal, balancing out the sweet notes of brown sugar.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate while adding brightness to your plate with its refreshing flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, avoid these common mistakes to ensure they turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to coat the chicken strips well can result in bland tenders. Make sure to toss them thoroughly in the brown sugar mixture before wrapping.
• Using thick bacon: Thick cut bacon may not cook properly with the tender chicken. Opt for regular or thin-cut bacon for even cooking and crispy results.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: Placing too many tenders too close together can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Leave some space between each tender on the baking sheet.
• Not monitoring cooking time: Baking times can vary based on your oven and thickness of bacon. Check for doneness and crispiness, especially during the last few minutes.
• Neglecting to let them rest: Cutting into the chicken right after baking can release juices, resulting in dry tenders. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10–15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm but avoid overheating, which can make them rubbery.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

You can certainly try other meats like pork tenderloin or turkey! Adjust cooking times as needed.

What sides go well with Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?

These tenders pair beautifully with salads, rice, or even sweet potato fries for a balanced meal.

How do I make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders healthier?

Consider using turkey bacon and reducing the brown sugar quantity to lower calories without compromising flavor.

Can I prepare these tenders ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, making them perfect for entertaining.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are an irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors that will please any crowd. Their versatility allows you to serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or even over salads for variety. Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite spices or sauces!