Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the culinary equivalent of a hug on a plate. Imagine tender chicken strips drizzled with a sweet and savory glaze that combines the smoky goodness of bacon with the delightful crunch of brown sugar. BBQ chicken mac and cheese This dish is not just food; it’s a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. chicken linguine with cowboy butter Trust me, every bite is a delicious revelation that makes you question why you ever settled for boring chicken tenders.
I remember the first time I made these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders for my friends during game night. The moment they took their first bite, it was as if time stood still. The room fell silent, and then came the chorus of “Mmmms” and “Yummms.” It was glorious! These tenders are perfect for game nights, casual dinners, or when you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. crispy chicken ranch wrap So roll up those sleeves; we’re about to embark on a sweet and savory journey!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are easy enough for weeknight dinners but fancy enough for entertaining guests
- The combination of flavors creates an irresistible dish that everyone will rave about
- They look stunning on any plate, making dinner feel special
- Plus, they pair perfectly with various sides, from salads to fries
I once made these tenders for a potluck, and my friends devoured them faster than I could say “bacon.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
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Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for extra flavor and crispy texture.
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Brown Sugar: Choose light or dark brown sugar based on how rich you want the glaze.
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Garlic Powder: A must-have for adding depth to your flavor profile.
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Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the overall taste of your chicken.
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Olive Oil: Helps achieve that golden-brown finish while keeping everything moist.
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Paprika: Add sweet or smoked paprika for an exciting twist in flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking while you prepare the chicken.
Prepare Your Chicken Breasts: Take those boneless chicken breasts and cut them into strips. Aim for sizes similar to tender pieces so they cook evenly.
Season Like You Mean It: In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub this spicy goodness all over your chicken strips until they’re well-coated.
Bacon Bliss Time: Chop your bacon into small bits and fry them in a pan over medium heat until crispy. Be sure to save some bacon grease for frying later; it’s liquid gold!
Make the Sweet Glaze: In another bowl, mix brown sugar with some reserved bacon grease until you have a thick paste. This will be your secret weapon for flavor. For more inspiration, check out this green beans with bacon recipe.
Coat and Bake!: Dip each seasoned chicken strip into the brown sugar mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper before baking them in the oven for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Now sit back and enjoy the mouthwatering aroma wafting through your kitchen! Your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders will be ready to tantalize those taste buds like never before! comforting chicken noodle soup.
You Must Know
- Bacon brown sugar chicken tenders create a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors
- The crispy coating is irresistible, making them perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in
- These tenders pair wonderfully with dipping sauces, adding fun to every bite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken tenders for at least 30 minutes. Then, bake them at 400°F until golden brown, ensuring an even cook throughout.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a unique twist. Adding spices like smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile too.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for crispy results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly crispy chicken tenders, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying
- Use fresh herbs to enhance flavor and always taste your marinade before using it on the chicken
Cooking these bacon brown sugar chicken tenders reminds me of a family BBQ where everyone fought over the last piece. It’s those little moments that make cooking so special.
FAQ
How can I make bacon brown sugar chicken tenders healthier?
Try baking instead of frying and using turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Can I prepare bacon brown sugar chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes, marinate them earlier and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
What dipping sauces pair well with these chicken tenders?
BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard complement these sweet and savory tenders perfectly. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe.
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken strips with a sweet and savory glaze. Each bite delivers mouthwatering flavors thanks to the crispy bacon and caramelized brown sugar. Perfect for game nights or impressing guests, this recipe is simple yet elegant, making it a must-try dish that elevates any meal. Get ready to indulge in a flavor-packed experience that your taste buds will love!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the chicken breasts into strips.
- In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika; coat the chicken strips evenly.
- Chop bacon and fry until crispy; reserve some grease.
- Mix brown sugar with reserved bacon grease until thick.
- Coat each chicken strip in the brown sugar mixture and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 tenders (150g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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