Crispy Sweet Bacon-Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe

Sizzling and sweet, these irresistible bacon brown sugar chicken tenders blend savory and caramelized flavors into an unforgettable meal.

Crispy bacon wraps tender chicken pieces in a delectable coat of rich, smoky goodness.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of salty and sugary notes that dance across your palate.

The golden-brown coating promises a crunch that will make mouths water and taste buds sing.

Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that feels like comfort and excitement on a single plate.

Home cooks and flavor enthusiasts will devour these chicken tenders in minutes, leaving everyone asking for seconds.

Prepare to transform an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience that sparks joy at the table.

Storing Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Efficiently

• Refrigerator Readiness: Store leftover bacon brown sugar chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Carefully stack tenders with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain their crispy texture.
• Freezer-Friendly Option: Wrap individual tenders in aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. These delicious bites can remain frozen for 2-3 months, perfect for quick future meals. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Quick Reheating Trick: Restore crispiness by warming tenders in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwave reheating, which can make bacon soggy and chicken tough. Toaster ovens work wonderfully for maintaining that delightful crunch.
• Meal Prep Magic: Prepare a double batch during weekend cooking. Separate portions into grab-and-go containers for easy lunch packing or quick weeknight dinners. These flavor-packed tenders make meal planning a breeze and keep hungry families satisfied.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: 400 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

• Chicken Tenders: Lean, tender meat that serves as the canvas for this sweet and savory dish, best when fresh and uniform in size.
• Bacon: Adds rich, smoky flavor and crispy texture, choose thick-cut for maximum crunch and best rendering.

• Brown Sugar, Garlic Powder, Paprika: Create a caramelized, complex flavor profile that transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering experience.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing the overall taste, adjust to personal preference for perfect seasoning.

• Bacon Strips: Not just a topping, but a crucial ingredient that provides depth, saltiness, and irresistible crispy coating when wrapped around chicken tenders.

Tools for Making Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

• Baking Sheet: Essential for cooking chicken tenders evenly and catching any drips.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Toothpicks: Optional tool to secure bacon around chicken tenders.
• Measuring Spoons: Helps measure seasonings precisely for perfect flavor.
• Cutting Board: Space to season and prepare chicken tenders.
• Tongs: Great for handling and arranging bacon-wrapped chicken in the oven.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensures chicken reaches safe internal temperature of 165°F.

How to Cook Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

• Oven Prep Warm and cozy, get your kitchen ready by heating the oven to a perfect golden temperature. The magic begins with creating a welcoming environment for your soon-to-be delectable chicken.
• Seasoning Magic Sprinkle your chicken tenders with a dance of spices that will make taste buds sing. Garlic powder and paprika will be your flavor heroes, bringing depth and excitement to each bite.
• Bacon Wrap Embrace each tender in a loving bacon hug, creating a crispy exterior that promises crunch and satisfaction. Secure these flavor bombs with tiny toothpick friends if they need extra support.
• Sweet Coating Shower your bacon-wrapped treasures with a snowfall of brown sugar. Press gently, letting the sweet crystals cling to every curve and crevice of the bacon.
• Baking Transformation Place your culinary creations on a prepared baking sheet, ready to transform in the oven's warm embrace. Watch as they turn golden and crispy, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
• Resting and Serving After their hot adventure, let these savory morsels rest briefly. This moment allows flavors to settle and juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and juicy deliciousness.

Tips to Perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

• Elevate Your Chicken Tenders
• Choose thick-cut bacon for maximum crispiness and better coverage on chicken tenders. Thinner bacon might burn quickly, while medium-thick slices provide perfect caramelization.
• Use dark brown sugar for deeper, richer flavor compared to light brown sugar. Gently press sugar onto bacon to create a delectable caramelized crust that adds stunning sweetness.
• Experiment with different seasoning blends like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian herbs to create unique flavor profiles. Each spice combination transforms the basic recipe into a gourmet experience.
• Prepare bacon-wrapped chicken tenders up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator. This technique allows flavors to meld and makes dinner preparation super quick and convenient.
• Pair these sweet and savory tenders with quick dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or tangy barbecue sauce. Fresh side salads or roasted vegetables complement the rich, indulgent chicken perfectly.

Serving Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders with Style

• Sweet and Spicy Party Platter: Arrange these bacon-wrapped tenders on a large wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, and ranch to create an irresistible appetizer spread perfect for game day or casual gatherings.
• Salad Stunner: Slice the chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over a fresh mixed green salad with crumbled blue cheese, sliced almonds, and a light vinaigrette for a protein-packed lunch option that offers incredible flavor and texture.
• Family-Style Feast: Serve these crispy tenders alongside classic sides like roasted sweet potato wedges, coleslaw, or buttered corn for a complete meal that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Pair with a cold beer or refreshing iced tea to complement the sweet and savory profile of the dish.
• Meal Prep Magic: Cook extra tenders and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Quickly reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispy bacon exterior, making them a convenient grab-and-go protein option for busy weekdays.

Irresistible Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe

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4.7 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Sizzling bacon brown sugar chicken tenders offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Crispy, caramelized edges and juicy meat make this dish irresistible when you crave comfort with a gourmet twist.

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Ingredients

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• 8 strips bacon
• 1 pound (454 grams) chicken tenders
• ½ cup (120 grams) brown sugar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), positioning rack in the middle for uniform heat distribution.
2. Seasoning Blend: Combine garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a robust flavor profile for the chicken tenders.
3. Chicken Preparation: Blot chicken tenders dry and thoroughly coat with the spice mixture, ensuring complete coverage and enhanced flavor absorption.
4. Bacon Wrapping: Encase each seasoned tender with a full bacon slice, overlapping edges to secure the meat. Secure with toothpicks if necessary to prevent unraveling during cooking.
5. Sugar Coating: Generously press brown sugar onto the bacon-wrapped tenders, creating a caramelizing layer that will develop a sweet and crispy exterior.
6. Baking Setup: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat. Arrange chicken tenders with ample spacing to promote even cooking and crisp bacon.
7. Cooking Process: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, monitoring until bacon turns golden and crispy, and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Resting and Serving: Allow tenders to rest for 5 minutes post-cooking to redistribute juices and set the caramelized coating. Remove toothpicks before serving and enjoy the warm, sweet-savory chicken tenders.

Notes

• Moisture Matters: Pat chicken tenders completely dry to help seasonings stick and achieve crispy bacon perfection.
• Bacon Wrapping Pro Tip: Overlap bacon slightly and secure with toothpicks to prevent unraveling during baking.
• Sugar Coating Technique: Press brown sugar firmly onto bacon for maximum caramelization and a deliciously sweet crust.
• Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption and juicy results.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 16 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg