If youโre in search of a recipe that will knock your socks off with its perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness, then Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders is exactly what you need! These tender chicken strips are coated in a mouthwatering blend of brown sugar and spices, topped with crispy, crumbled bacon, and baked to absolute perfection. Whether youโre whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a weekend gathering, these chicken tenders will become a staple on your menu.
Letโs dive into the irresistible details of this recipe, covering everything from ingredients to serving suggestions. Once you try these chicken tenders, youโll understand why this dish is destined to become your new favorite!
Ingredients for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Before you start cooking, itโs essential to gather all the ingredients. This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find items that combine for a sweet and savory masterpiece. Hereโs what youโll need:
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces)
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ยฝ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ยฝ teaspoon garlic powder
- ยฝ teaspoon onion powder
- ยฝ teaspoon salt
- ยผ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or oil (for greasing)
These ingredients are packed with flavor and come together to create the perfect dish that everyone will rave about!
How to Make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Now, letโs get cooking! This recipe is straightforward and easy, with just a few steps to follow to achieve the perfect combination of flavors.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). The right temperature ensures that your chicken tenders cook thoroughly while allowing the bacon to crisp up beautifully. While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning
In a small bowl, mix together the following ingredients to create your seasoning blend:
- ยฝ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ยฝ teaspoon garlic powder
- ยฝ teaspoon onion powder
- ยฝ teaspoon salt
- ยผ teaspoon black pepper
This seasoning combination is key to achieving the sweet and savory balance that will make your chicken tenders irresistible. Brown sugar adds sweetness, while paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder bring depth and flavor. Salt and pepper help to balance the sweetness and add that savory kick.
Step 3: Season the Chicken Tenders
Take your chicken tenders and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated generously. Use your fingers or a spoon to press the seasoning mixture into the chicken, ensuring that it sticks well.
Step 4: Add the Bacon
Once your chicken is seasoned, itโs time to add the finishing touch: the bacon! Crumble the cooked bacon into small pieces and sprinkle it evenly over the chicken tenders. The crispy bacon adds both flavor and texture to the dish, making each bite extra delicious.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken Tenders
Place the baking sheet with the chicken tenders in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ยฐF (74ยฐC). The bacon should be crispy and golden brown, and the chicken should be tender and juicy on the inside.
If you want the bacon to be even crispier, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the cooking time. Just be sure to keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 6: 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 redistribute and ensures the chicken stays tender. Serve these sweet and savory chicken tenders hot, and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors!
Nutritional Information
For those who are mindful of their calorie intake, hereโs a breakdown of the nutritional information:
- Calories: 300 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4 servings
This dish provides a great balance of protein, healthy fats, and a touch of sweetness. Itโs perfect for a fulfilling dinner without going overboard on calories.
How to Serve Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to make your meal even more satisfying:
- Roasted vegetables: A side of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes complements the savory chicken tenders beautifully.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make the perfect comfort food pairing for this dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory chicken tenders.
- Rice: Fluffy rice or quinoa absorbs the flavorful juices from the chicken, making it a great side dish.
- Green beans: Sautรฉed green beans add a touch of crunch and color to your plate.
For beverages, consider pairing this dish with a refreshing iced tea, lemonade, or even sparkling water to balance out the richness of the chicken.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to tweak it based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Spicy version: If you like things spicy, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a little heat.
- Herb-infused: Add some fresh thyme or rosemary to the seasoning mix for an extra layer of flavor.
- Maple Bacon: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle maple syrup over the bacon before baking for a maple-bacon flavor twist.
- Low-sodium: Use low-sodium bacon and reduce the amount of salt in the seasoning mix if youโre looking to cut down on sodium.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While this recipe is straightforward, here are a few tips to ensure that your chicken tenders turn out perfectly:
- Donโt overcrowd the baking sheet: Make sure the chicken tenders are spaced out so they cook evenly. Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy bacon.
- Watch the bacon: Bacon can go from crispy to burnt quickly, so keep an eye on it, especially when broiling.
- Check the internal temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached the safe cooking temperature of 165ยฐF (74ยฐC) to avoid undercooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips if you donโt have chicken tenders. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as thicker pieces of chicken may take longer to cook.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add a spicy kick, sprinkle cayenne pepper, chili powder, or red pepper flakes over the chicken tenders along with the brown sugar seasoning. You can also add a drizzle of hot sauce on top for an extra spicy touch.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken tenders, season them, and top them with bacon a few hours before baking. Just store them in the fridge until youโre ready to cook. This will allow the flavors to marinate and enhance the taste even more.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon. It will have a slightly different texture but still provide that crispy, savory flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Can I freeze the chicken tenders?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken tenders. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Conclusion
These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and crispy goodness that will satisfy any craving. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether youโre preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
For more delicious recipes to complement your dinner, check out these mouthwatering options:
- One-Pan Bacon Alfredo Tortellini Delight โ A Creamy, Crispy Delight
- Cheesy Bacon Garlic Butter Burger Rollups โ A Flavorful Bite
- Creamy Marry Me Chicken โ Romantic Dinner Recipe
Now that you have the recipe, itโs time to get cooking! Enjoy the sweet and savory perfection of Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders today, and watch as your family and friends devour every last bite.
PrintBacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders โ Sweet & Savory Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of sweet and savory! With tender chicken coated in a crispy layer of crumbled bacon and a brown sugar seasoning, these chicken tenders are sure to become your new go-to dinner idea. Whether for a family meal or a party appetizer, these juicy, flavorful tenders are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8โ10 pieces)
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease with cooking spray or oil.
- Prepare the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Season the Chicken Tenders: Place the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the chicken tenders, ensuring an even coating.
- Add the Bacon: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon pieces generously over the seasoned chicken tenders.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
- Serve: Serve the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders hot. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors in each bite!
Notes
- You can use regular or thick-cut bacon for added crispiness.
- For an extra crispy finish, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch it carefully to avoid burning.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe (2-3 chicken tenders)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 760mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, Sweet and Savory Chicken, Easy Chicken Recipe, Bacon Chicken Tenders, Dinner Idea, Comfort Food, Chicken Tenders with Bacon, Chicken Dinner Recipe, Crispy Bacon Chicken