If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s both sweet and savory, these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the perfect choice. This recipe combines the tenderness of chicken with the smoky goodness of bacon and the sweet touch of brown sugar, creating a flavor-packed meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, main dish, or even a party snack, these chicken tenders are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 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)
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil. This step ensures that the chicken tenders won’t stick to the baking sheet and will have a nice, even cook.
Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This spice mix will give the chicken tenders a sweet and smoky flavor with just the right amount of seasoning.
Season the Chicken Tenders:
Place the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the chicken tenders, ensuring they are well coated. This will give the chicken a beautiful caramelized glaze as it bakes.
Add the Bacon:
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon pieces over the seasoned chicken tenders. The bacon will add a crispy, salty contrast to the sweet brown sugar coating, making these chicken tenders irresistible.
Bake:
Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Serve:
Serve the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders hot. These tenders are perfect on their own or paired with a dipping sauce of your choice. Enjoy this delightful blend of flavors in every bite!
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Tips:
- Pairing: These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are versatile and can be served with a variety of side dishes. For a well-rounded meal, pair them with mashed potatoes, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables. They also make a great appetizer for parties, especially when served with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
- Garnishing: Add a touch of freshness by garnishing the tenders with chopped parsley or green onions. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to your dish.
- Presentation: For a stylish presentation, arrange the tenders on a platter lined with crisp lettuce leaves or place them on skewers for easy handling at parties.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store the chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their crispiness.
- Freezing: To extend their shelf life, you can freeze the cooked chicken tenders. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
- Reheating Tips: For the best texture, avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can make the bacon soggy. Instead, use the oven or an air fryer to restore their crispy exterior.
These serving and storage tips will help you enjoy your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders fresh, even days after cooking!
Variations:
1. Spicy Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders:
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add some spice to the original recipe. Simply mix in 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the brown sugar seasoning. This will give the chicken tenders a sweet and spicy kick that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
2. Maple-Glazed Bacon Chicken Tenders:
To add a rich maple flavor, substitute half of the brown sugar with pure maple syrup. Brush the syrup over the chicken tenders after seasoning them with the spices, then proceed to sprinkle the bacon on top. The result is a deliciously sticky and sweet coating with a hint of smoky bacon.
3. Cheesy Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders:
For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese over the chicken tenders during the last 5 minutes of baking. The cheese will melt and create a gooey layer over the bacon and chicken, adding another layer of flavor and texture.
4. Herb-Infused Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders:
Enhance the flavor profile by incorporating fresh or dried herbs. Add 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning to the brown sugar mixture before coating the chicken. These herbs will complement the sweet and savory flavors while adding a fragrant aroma to the dish.
5. Honey Mustard Bacon Chicken Tenders:
For a tangy twist, mix 2 tablespoons of honey mustard into the brown sugar seasoning. The mustard adds a bit of zest that pairs beautifully with the sweet brown sugar and salty bacon. Serve with extra honey mustard on the side for dipping.
6. Barbecue Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders:
Combine the best of barbecue with these chicken tenders by brushing a thin layer of your favorite barbecue sauce over the chicken before adding the brown sugar seasoning. The barbecue sauce will caramelize as it bakes, blending perfectly with the bacon and brown sugar for a smoky, sweet flavor.
7. Low-Sugar Option:
If you’re looking to reduce the sugar content, try using a sugar substitute like Stevia or a low-sugar brown sugar alternative. You can also reduce the amount of brown sugar used, and the chicken tenders will still have a delicious, slightly sweet flavor.
FAQs:
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts in place of chicken tenders. Simply cut the chicken breasts into strips that are similar in size to tenders. The cooking time may vary slightly, so make sure to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
2. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes, you can make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the tenders for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The bacon will become crispy, and the chicken will cook evenly.
3. Can I prepare these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time. Season the chicken and add the bacon, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, simply place the prepared chicken in the oven and bake as directed.
4. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative for those looking to reduce fat and calories. Keep in mind that turkey bacon may not crisp up as much as regular bacon, so you might want to increase the baking time slightly or finish them under the broiler for a few minutes.
5. What can I serve with Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
These chicken tenders pair well with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a fun twist, serve them with sweet potato fries or mac and cheese for a more indulgent meal.
6. How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?
The chicken tenders are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the tender. Additionally, the chicken should be white and opaque throughout, with clear juices.
7. Can I use brown sugar substitutes for a lower-calorie version?
Yes, you can use brown sugar substitutes like Stevia or erythritol-based brown sugar alternatives. These substitutes will still provide the sweetness without the extra calories. Just follow the substitution ratio provided on the package of your chosen sweetener.
8. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken tenders. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are an easy and delicious way to elevate your mealtime. With minimal prep time and a short baking duration, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering. The combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a sweet brown sugar glaze makes for a dish that’s truly irresistible. Give this recipe a try, and it might just become a new favorite in your household!