Sweet and Savory Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Looking for a flavorful, quick, and easy dinner? Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of crispy bacon, sweet brown sugar, and tender chicken. These chicken tenders are baked until golden and caramelized, making them a family favorite in no time. With minimal ingredients and a simple prep process, this dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend treat.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders – The main protein, juicy and tender.
- 8 slices of bacon – Provides crispy, smoky flavor.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed – Adds sweetness and helps create the caramelized coating.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – For a subtle tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – To enhance the savory flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika – Adds a touch of warmth and color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – To balance the flavors.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
Lay the bacon slices on a separate baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon from the oven and set it aside to cool. Crumble the bacon into small pieces when it’s cool enough to handle. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies
Step 3: Mix the Coating
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the ingredients form a smooth paste.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks. Brush each chicken tender with the brown sugar mixture, coating them evenly.
Step 5: Wrap in Bacon
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over each coated chicken tender, pressing gently to ensure the bacon sticks.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Place the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the bacon is crispy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the chicken tenders cool for a few minutes before serving. These chicken tenders are perfect on their own or served with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard.
Pro Tips for the Best Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Use Thick-Cut Bacon: For extra crispiness and a smokier flavor, opt for thick-cut bacon.
- Add Spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the bacon.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in the juices.
- Make it a Meal: Pair these tenders with a simple side salad, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with:
- A fresh side salad for a light, refreshing contrast.
- Crispy fries or sweet potato fries for a more hearty meal.
- Corn on the cob or grilled veggies to add more flavor and color to the plate.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 330 kcal
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fats: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Conclusion
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that will delight your taste buds. With crispy bacon and tender chicken, this easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for dinner, a party, or a special occasion, these chicken tenders are bound to impress. Try them tonight and enjoy a satisfying, flavorful meal! Butter Biscuits