Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Welcome to our recipe blog! Today, we’re excited to share a delicious and irresistible dish: Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. This recipe combines the savory flavor of bacon with the sweetness of brown sugar, creating a perfect balance that will leave your taste buds craving more. These chicken tenders are easy to prepare and are perfect for family dinners, parties, or any occasion that calls for a delightful treat. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to create this mouth-watering dish.

Ingredients to Prepare

Before you begin, gather all the necessary ingredients to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.

For the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders:

• 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces)
• 8 slices of bacon
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray or oil (for greasing)

How to Make

Creating these delicious Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure the best results.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Lightly grease the foil or parchment with cooking spray or oil.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the chicken tenders, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

Step 2: Wrap with Bacon

1. Wrap Each Tender: Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon. Start at one end and wrap tightly, securing the ends underneath the tender. Place the wrapped chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down.

Step 3: Add More Brown Sugar

1. Sprinkle Brown Sugar: Sprinkle any remaining brown sugar mixture over the top of the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders for an extra touch of sweetness.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken Tenders

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. For extra crispiness, you can broil the tenders for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time.
2. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Serve

1. Cool and Serve: Allow the chicken tenders to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the brown sugar glaze to set and makes them easier to handle.
2. Garnish: Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and added flavor.

Helpful Tips

• Even Coating: Ensure each chicken tender is evenly coated with the spice mixture for consistent flavor.
• Tight Wrapping: Wrap the bacon tightly around the chicken tenders to keep the bacon in place during cooking.
• Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the tenders during the last few minutes of baking to avoid burning the brown sugar.

Cooking Tips

• Variation: For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mixture.
• Grill Option: These chicken tenders can also be grilled for a smoky flavor. Grill over medium heat until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.

Serving Suggestions

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.
• Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• Appetizer: Cut the tenders into bite-sized pieces for a perfect party appetizer.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 20g

Storage and Leftovers

• Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Reheating: Warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until they are thoroughly heated Avoid. microwaving to keep the bacon crispy.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken tenders. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?

A: Yes, turkey bacon can be used as an alternative. Keep in mind that it may not become as crispy as pork bacon.

Q: Can I prepare these chicken tenders in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare and wrap the chicken tenders up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Q: What if I don’t have brown sugar?

If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use granulated sugar mixed with a little molasses as a substitute. Alternatively, use maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

Q: How do I prevent the bacon from unwrapping during cooking?

Wrapping the bacon tightly and placing the tenders seam-side down on the baking sheet should keep the bacon in place. Toothpicks can also be used to secure the bacon, but remember to remove them before serving.

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Q: How do I make the bacon extra crispy?

To make the bacon extra crispy, you can broil the tenders for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Conclusion

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines savory and sweet flavors. Perfect for any occasion, these tenders are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a special treat, these chicken tenders are guaranteed to impress.

We hope you enjoy making and sharing these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below, and let us know if you have any tips or variations you’d like to share. Happy cooking!

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