Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the kind of irresistible snack that vanishes from the plate in minutes. I love recipes that take simple ingredients and turn them into something special, and this one does exactly that.

The combination of savory bacon, caramelized brown sugar, and juicy chicken creates a bite-sized treat that’s packed with flavor. I remember making these for a game night with friends, thinking I’d have leftovers for the next day. That didn’t happen. By the time I went back for seconds, the plate was empty, and everyone was asking for the recipe.

These tenders have the perfect balance of textures—crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a sticky, caramelized coating that makes them irresistible. They work as a fun appetizer, a game-day snack, or even a simple weeknight meal with a side of roasted veggies.

They’re easy to make. If you’re looking for a dish that’s sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen, this is the one. Let’s dive into how to make these sweet and savory bites!

Short Description

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. Tender chicken strips are coated in a seasoned brown sugar mix, wrapped in crispy bacon, and baked until caramelized perfection. A quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing dish!

Key Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 6 strips bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra richness)
• Salt and pepper

Tools Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Basting brush
• Meat thermometer

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. This will add a rich, caramelized flavor to the chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Drizzle the chicken tenders with olive oil and Dijon mustard, tossing to coat evenly. Then, roll each tender in the brown sugar mixture, making sure it’s well covered.

Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each coated chicken tender with a strip of chopped bacon. Place them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle any remaining brown sugar mixture over the top.

Step 5: Bake Until Crispy
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). For extra caramelization, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the tenders cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them hot, straight from the oven!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make with simple ingredients

Sweet, smoky, and savory in every bite

Perfect for any occasion, from dinner to game day

Baked, not fried, making it a lighter option

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Overcrowding the baking sheet: Space the tenders out so the bacon crisps up properly.

Skipping the broil: This step adds the perfect caramelized crunch!

Using thick-cut bacon: Regular bacon wraps better and crisps up evenly.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

– Serve with honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.
– Pair with roasted veggies, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
– Enjoy with a cold glass of lemonade or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes or air-fry at 375°F for 5 minutes to keep the bacon crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use turkey bacon instead?
Yes, but it may not get as crispy as regular bacon. Try broiling for an extra minute.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep them and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking.

3. What’s the best way to make them spicier?
Increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 tsp or add a drizzle of hot sauce.

4. Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air-fry at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. How do I keep bacon from unwrapping while baking?
Place tenders seam-side down or use toothpicks to secure the bacon.

Tips & Tricks

– Pat the chicken dry before coating for better caramelization.
– Use a wire rack on the baking sheet for extra crispy bacon.
– Let them rest for a few minutes after baking for the flavors to meld.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Maple Glazed: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup and double the cayenne.

Parmesan-Crusted: Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan to the brown sugar mixture.

Honey Mustard Twist: Swap Dijon mustard for honey mustard for a tangy-sweet kick.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are simple ingredients can create bold, unforgettable flavors. The crispy bacon, caramelized brown sugar, and juicy chicken make every bite a perfect balance of savory and sweet. They’re the kind of snack that turns any gathering into a party and any weeknight dinner into something special.

If you love recipes that deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort, this one belongs in your collection. Just be warned—once you make them, they’ll become a regular request in your kitchen. Enjoy every crispy, sticky, delicious bite!