Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the ultimate combination of sweet and savory, making them a favorite for family dinners or casual gatherings. This simple recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor, making it perfect for busy days. You can easily customize these tenders to suit your taste, whether you prefer them extra crispy or with a hint of spice.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 30 grams
Carbohydrates: 18 grams
Fat: 18 grams
Fiber: 0 grams
Sugar: 8 grams
Sodium: 850 mg
Why Make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Making Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders brings together the irresistible flavors of bacon and brown sugar, creating a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Not only are these tenders incredibly tasty, but they are also versatile. Serve them with a side salad for a lighter meal or alongside mashed potatoes for something heartier. Plus, they can be made in advance and offer excellent leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.
How to Make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Step by Step
Ingredients
2 chicken breasts, boneless skinless
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
Bacon strips (enough to wrap the chicken)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with Kosher salt.
- Wrap each chicken breast with bacon strips and secure them with toothpicks if necessary.
- Sprinkle brown sugar generously over the wrapped chicken.
- Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and bacon is crispy.
- Let cool slightly, remove toothpicks, and serve.
How to Serve Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Consider serving these delicious tenders with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. They also pair wonderfully with coleslaw or roasted vegetables for extra crunch and nutrition. For a fun twist, drizzle some barbecue sauce or honey mustard on the side for dipping.
How to Store Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Leftover tenders can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If you want to make a larger batch, these tenders freeze well! Just wrap them tightly and store them in a freezer bag for up to three months.
Expert Tips for Cooking Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Use thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness and flavor.
- Consider soaking toothpicks in water before use to prevent them from burning in the oven.
- For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar before sprinkling it on the chicken.
- Make sure to line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Delicious Variations of Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Try adding crushed garlic or fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for a more aromatic flavor. You could also experiment by marinating the chicken in your favorite hot sauce before wrapping them in bacon for a spicy kick. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with large portobello mushrooms and follow the same wrapping process for a delicious plant-based version.
Conclusion
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delightful meal that merges savory and sweet in every bite. With their ease of preparation and fantastic flavor, they’re sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try and see how quickly they disappear from your dining table!
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts, boneless skinless
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- enough to wrap strips Bacon strips Use thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with Kosher salt.
- Wrap each chicken breast with bacon strips and secure them with toothpicks if necessary.
- Sprinkle brown sugar generously over the wrapped chicken.
- Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and bacon is crispy.
- Let cool slightly, remove toothpicks, and serve.
