Bacon Brown Sugar ChickenTenders

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. If you have a cooling rack, you can place it on top of the baking sheet to ensure the chicken cooks evenly on all sides.

2. Season the Chicken Tenders:

Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the seasoning and bacon stick better. Season both sides of the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Set aside.

3. Prepare the Brown Sugar Glaze:

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt together until the sugar is dissolved. This will be the glaze that coats the chicken and adds that perfect sweet and savory flavor.

4. Wrap the Chicken with Bacon:

Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each chicken tender. The bacon should fully cover the chicken, and if it overlaps, that’s fine—it just adds more crispiness to the finished dish. Secure the bacon in place with toothpicks if necessary.

5. Coat with Brown Sugar Glaze:

Brush the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders with the brown sugar glaze. Make sure each tender is generously coated to ensure that delicious sweetness caramelizes as it bakes.

6. Bake the Chicken Tenders:

Place the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet (or cooling rack). Bake them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through. If you want extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it so the bacon doesn’t burn.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the chicken tenders are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle and makes them easier to eat. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also dip them in a tangy ranch dressing or a zesty BBQ sauce for an added layer of flavor.

Why You’ll Love These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders:

1. Sweet and Savory Flavor: The combination of crispy bacon, caramelized brown sugar, and seasoned chicken creates the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Every bite is bursting with flavor that will have you coming back for more.
2. Easy to Make: With only a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, these chicken tenders come together quickly and are perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend treat.
3. Crispy and Juicy: The bacon crisps up beautifully while the chicken stays juicy and tender. This contrast of textures makes each bite absolutely irresistible.
4. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving these at a family dinner or a party, these chicken tenders are sure to be a hit. They’re easy to share and perfect for dipping, making them a great appetizer or main dish.
5. Versatile: You can customize the glaze to suit your tastes. Add a little hot sauce for a spicy kick, or experiment with different herbs and seasonings in the chicken. You can also swap out the bacon for prosciutto or turkey bacon for a different twist.

Tips for the Best Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders:

• Use thick-cut bacon: For the best texture and flavor, opt for thick-cut bacon. It holds up better when wrapped around the chicken and crisps up nicely in the oven.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: To ensure even cooking, make sure the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders have space between them on the baking sheet. If necessary, bake them in batches.
• Check the internal temperature: The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, especially if the tenders are large or thick.
• Make ahead: If you want to save time, you can prepare the chicken tenders the night before, wrap them in bacon, coat them with the glaze, and refrigerate them. Then, just bake them when you’re ready to eat.

Conclusion:

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of crispy, sweet, and savory—a dish that’s simple to prepare but tastes like a gourmet treat. Whether you serve them as a main dish, appetizer, or snack, these chicken tenders are sure to satisfy everyone at the table. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and the rich sweetness of the brown sugar glaze is simply irresistible. Enjoy!