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Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

 

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Introduction:
These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the ultimate blend of sweet and savory, wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in a delicious brown sugar glaze. Perfect for appetizers, dinner, or even game-day snacks, this easy-to-make recipe will satisfy your cravings!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • 6 slices of bacon (cut in half to wrap tenders)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to help the bacon crisp up evenly.
  2. Wrap the Chicken:
    • Wrap each chicken tender with a half slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
  3. Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture:
    • In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
  4. Coat the Chicken:
    • Sprinkle or rub the brown sugar mixture evenly over the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders. Make sure all sides are coated for the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors.
  5. Bake the Chicken Tenders:
    • Place the chicken tenders on the wire rack and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the bacon is crispy. For extra crispiness, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
  6. Serve:
    • Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Remove the toothpicks before serving, and enjoy hot.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 320
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Fat: 21g
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Fiber: 0g

Enjoy:
These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a sweet brown sugar coating that will leave everyone asking for more!

Here are some helpful tips to make your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders even more delightful:

1. Use Thin-Cut Bacon

  • Tip: Thin-cut bacon will crisp up more easily and evenly. Thick-cut bacon may take longer to cook and could leave the chicken tenders slightly undercooked if not monitored closely.

2. Add Spice for a Sweet & Spicy Kick

  • Tip: For a little heat, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the brown sugar mixture. This creates a balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.

3. Par-cook the Bacon

  • Tip: If you like super crispy bacon, partially cook the bacon for a few minutes in a skillet before wrapping the chicken tenders. This ensures a crispier result without overcooking the chicken.

4. Use Dark Brown Sugar

  • Tip: Dark brown sugar has a higher molasses content, which adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor. It also helps the sugar coating become more caramelized and crispy.

5. Drizzle with Honey or Maple Syrup

  • Tip: After baking, drizzle the tenders with honey or maple syrup for an extra layer of sweetness and richness.

6. Serve with a Dipping Sauce

  • Tip: Pair your bacon brown sugar chicken tenders with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for dipping. It adds flavor and makes them even more fun to eat.

7. Use Chicken Thighs

  • Tip: Swap out chicken tenders for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Thighs are juicier and more flavorful, providing a richer taste.

8. Ensure Even Bacon Wrapping

  • Tip: Make sure the bacon is wrapped tightly around the chicken tenders to prevent it from unwrapping during cooking. Toothpicks help keep everything in place.

9. Add a Crunchy Topping

  • Tip: Sprinkle some crushed pretzels or breadcrumbs over the bacon-wrapped tenders before baking for a crunchy texture on top.

10. Bake on a Wire Rack

  • Tip: Place the chicken tenders on a wire rack over a lined baking sheet. This allows the air to circulate and the bacon to crisp up on all sides, while the chicken stays juicy.

11. Use a Meat Thermometer

  • Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken tenders should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they’re fully cooked.

12. Brush with BBQ Sauce

  • Tip: For a smoky, tangy twist, brush the chicken tenders with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of baking.

13. Marinate the Chicken

  • Tip: Marinate the chicken tenders in a simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 30 minutes before wrapping them in bacon. This adds an extra layer of flavor to the chicken.

14. Try Different Seasonings

  • Tip: Experiment with different seasonings in the brown sugar mixture, such as cumin, smoked paprika, or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.

15. Add Pineapple

  • Tip: Place a small pineapple chunk on top of each chicken tender before wrapping it with bacon for a tropical sweet-and-savory bite.

16. Use a Broiler for Extra Crispiness

  • Tip: For super crispy bacon, broil the tenders for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

17. Baste with Butter

  • Tip: Halfway through cooking, baste the chicken tenders with melted butter for a richer flavor and golden finish.

18. Use a Sweet and Savory Rub

  • Tip: Add a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or oregano to the brown sugar mixture for a more complex flavor.

19. Serve with Mashed Potatoes or Salad

  • Tip: Pair the tenders with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad to round out the meal and balance the sweetness.

20. Let Rest Before Serving

  • Tip: Allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.

By following these tips, you’ll take your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders to the next level, making them even more flavorful, crispy, and irresistible!

Here are 40 secrets to achieving the perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, ensuring they are crispy, juicy, flavorful, and irresistibly delicious:

Ingredients

  1. Use Fresh Chicken Tenders: Fresh tenders have better texture and flavor than frozen ones.
  2. Thin-Cut Bacon: Thin-cut bacon crisps up better and cooks more evenly with the chicken.
  3. Use High-Quality Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
  4. Season the Chicken: Before wrapping with bacon, season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
  5. Add Smoked Paprika: Mix smoked paprika into the brown sugar for a subtle smoky flavor.
  6. Incorporate Cayenne Pepper: Add a pinch of cayenne to the brown sugar for a spicy kick.
  7. Use Garlic Powder: Garlic powder in the seasoning mix adds a savory depth.
  8. Use Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzle honey or maple syrup for a sweet, sticky glaze.
  9. Try Coconut Sugar: For a slightly healthier option, use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.
  10. Mix in Mustard: Add a spoonful of Dijon mustard to the brown sugar for a tangy bite.

Preparation

  1. Par-Cook the Bacon: Partially cook the bacon before wrapping the tenders to ensure it crisps up perfectly.
  2. Preheat the Oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking from the start.
  3. Secure with Toothpicks: Use toothpicks to secure the bacon around the chicken to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.
  4. Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Spread the chicken tenders evenly on the baking sheet for even cooking and crispiness.
  5. Line the Baking Sheet: Use parchment paper or aluminum foil to make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.
  6. Use a Wire Rack: Place the tenders on a wire rack to allow air circulation and prevent soggy bottoms.
  7. Let the Chicken Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in juices.
  8. Cut the Bacon in Half: If the bacon is too long, cut it in half before wrapping to avoid overlapping.
  9. Use Room Temperature Bacon: Let the bacon sit at room temperature for a few minutes for easier wrapping.
  10. Season the Bacon: Sprinkle some extra brown sugar and garlic powder directly on the bacon for added flavor.

Cooking

  1. Bake at 375°F: Bake at a consistent 375°F for perfectly crispy bacon and tender chicken.
  2. Use a Meat Thermometer: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
  3. Broil at the End: Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking for extra crispy bacon, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
  4. Turn the Tenders Halfway: Flip the chicken tenders halfway through cooking for even crisping.
  5. Brush with Butter: Brush melted butter over the chicken tenders halfway through cooking for added richness.
  6. Use Convection Bake: If available, use a convection setting for faster and more even cooking.
  7. Watch for Caramelization: Keep an eye on the brown sugar mixture to ensure it caramelizes without burning.
  8. Don’t Overcook: Monitor the tenders closely to prevent them from drying out.
  9. Avoid Excess Moisture: Pat the chicken tenders dry before wrapping them in bacon to help the bacon crisp up.
  10. Rotate the Pan: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even heat distribution.

Flavor Enhancers

  1. Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary over the chicken before baking for an herbal touch.
  2. Include BBQ Sauce: Brush BBQ sauce on the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking for a smoky-sweet glaze.
  3. Use Chipotle Powder: For a smoky and spicy twist, add chipotle powder to the brown sugar mix.
  4. Experiment with Maple Bacon: Try using maple-flavored bacon to enhance the sweet notes.
  5. Squeeze Fresh Lemon Juice: Add a squeeze of lemon juice over the tenders before serving for a bright, tangy contrast.
  6. Top with Crumbled Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for a crunchy texture.
  7. Use Soy Sauce: Add a splash of soy sauce to the brown sugar mix for umami depth.
  8. Mix in Crushed Red Pepper: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the brown sugar for a mild heat.
  9. Try Coconut Bacon: For a tropical twist, use coconut-flavored bacon or add shredded coconut to the seasoning mix.
  10. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: After baking, drizzle a little balsamic glaze for a tangy and sweet finishing touch.

Here are 40 popular questions and answers related to Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders to help you make the perfect dish:

Ingredients

  1. Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?
    • Answer: Yes, you can use turkey bacon, but it may not crisp up as much as pork bacon. You can also cook it longer to achieve crispiness.
  2. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of tenders?
    • Answer: Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well, but they may require slightly longer cooking time due to their thickness.
  3. Is it okay to use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
    • Answer: Yes, light brown sugar works fine, but dark brown sugar adds a richer, deeper flavor.
  4. Can I use honey instead of brown sugar?
    • Answer: Yes, honey can be used for a similar sweetness, but it may not caramelize the same way as brown sugar.
  5. What kind of bacon should I use?
    • Answer: Use thin or medium-cut bacon for better crisping. Thick-cut bacon may take longer to cook and won’t crisp up as well.
  6. Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
    • Answer: Yes, but make sure they are thawed and patted dry before wrapping in bacon to ensure even cooking.
  7. Can I add spices to the brown sugar mixture?
    • Answer: Absolutely! You can add spices like cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or black pepper for a more flavorful coating.
  8. What if I don’t have garlic powder?
    • Answer: You can use fresh minced garlic or onion powder as a substitute for garlic powder.
  9. Can I use a sugar substitute?
    • Answer: Yes, you can use sugar substitutes like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener, but the texture may differ.
  10. Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
    • Answer: Yes, cut the chicken breast into strips to resemble tenders and follow the same instructions.

Preparation

  1. Do I need to season the chicken before wrapping in bacon?
    • Answer: Yes, it’s best to season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for added flavor.
  2. How do I prevent the bacon from falling off?
    • Answer: Use toothpicks to secure the bacon around the chicken tenders while baking.
  3. Should I pre-cook the bacon?
    • Answer: No, there’s no need to pre-cook the bacon, but if you want extra crispy bacon, you can partially cook it before wrapping the chicken.
  4. Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
    • Answer: It’s recommended to use foil or parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  5. Can I make these ahead of time?
    • Answer: Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
  6. Do I need to marinate the chicken?
    • Answer: Marinating is optional. A simple seasoning of garlic powder, salt, and pepper is sufficient, but you can marinate for added flavor.
  7. Should I pat the chicken dry before wrapping?
    • Answer: Yes, patting the chicken dry ensures the bacon adheres well and helps the chicken cook evenly.
  8. Can I freeze Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
    • Answer: Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. For best results, freeze before baking and cook from frozen, adjusting the time accordingly.
  9. How do I prevent the sugar from burning?
    • Answer: Monitor the cooking time carefully and avoid using too much sugar. You can also cover the tenders with foil if they start to brown too quickly.
  10. How many chicken tenders should I make per person?
    • Answer: Plan for about 2-3 tenders per person, depending on the size of the tenders and the rest of the meal.

Cooking

  1. What temperature should I bake the chicken tenders at?
    • Answer: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for optimal results, ensuring the chicken cooks through while the bacon crisps.
  2. How long should I bake the tenders?
    • Answer: Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the bacon is crispy.
  3. Should I flip the tenders halfway through baking?
    • Answer: Flipping halfway through helps the bacon crisp evenly, but it’s not necessary.
  4. Can I cook these in an air fryer?
    • Answer: Yes, you can cook them in an air fryer at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  5. How do I know when the chicken tenders are done?
    • Answer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Can I grill the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
    • Answer: Yes, grilling adds a nice smoky flavor. Grill over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
  7. Can I use a broiler for extra crispiness?
    • Answer: Yes, broil the tenders for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to make the bacon extra crispy.
  8. Should I cover the tenders with foil while baking?
    • Answer: No need to cover them, but you can tent them loosely with foil if the bacon starts to brown too quickly.
  9. Can I cook these on the stovetop?
    • Answer: It’s best to bake or air fry them for even cooking and crispy bacon, but you can cook them on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, turning frequently.
  10. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
    • Answer: While not ideal for crisping the bacon, you can cook them in a slow cooker, then broil them for a few minutes to crisp the bacon.

Serving & Customization

  1. What can I serve with Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
    • Answer: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, mac and cheese, or a side salad for a balanced meal.
  2. Can I add cheese to the chicken tenders?
    • Answer: You can sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
  3. Can I use flavored bacon?
    • Answer: Yes, flavored bacon like maple, peppered, or hickory-smoked works well and enhances the flavor.
  4. What dipping sauces go well with these tenders?
    • Answer: Ranch dressing, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or sriracha mayo are great dipping options.
  5. Can I add extra seasonings?
    • Answer: Feel free to add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
  6. How do I store leftovers?
    • Answer: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.
  7. Can I make these tenders spicier?
    • Answer: Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or crushed red pepper to the brown sugar mix for extra heat.
  8. Can I make a gluten-free version?
    • Answer: Ensure the bacon and seasonings are gluten-free, and you’ll have a naturally gluten-free dish.
  9. Can I serve these as appetizers?
    • Answer: Yes, they make excellent appetizers! Just cut the tenders into smaller pieces or use toothpicks for easy serving.
  10. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
    • Answer: You can wrap the chicken tenders with bacon and add sliced bell peppers, onions, or even pineapple for extra flavor.