Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

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🍗 Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Sweet, savory perfection wrapped in crispy bacon and caramelized with brown sugar.

These bacon brown sugar chicken tenders are the ultimate appetizer or main dish. Juicy chicken tenderloins are wrapped in smoky bacon, coated with a brown sugar-spice mixture, and baked until sticky, caramelized, and irresistible. Perfect for parties, game nights, or family dinners!

📝 Ingredients for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

  • 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breast strips)

  • 10–12 slices of bacon

  • ½ cup brown sugar (packed)

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prep oven – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top (for even crisping).

  2. Season chicken – In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, pepper, and cayenne.

  3. Wrap with bacon – Take each chicken tender, wrap tightly with one slice of bacon, and secure ends underneath.

  4. Coat – Roll each bacon-wrapped tender in the brown sugar mixture, pressing gently so it sticks.

  5. Bake – Arrange tenders on the rack and bake 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway, until bacon is crisp and chicken is cooked through.

  6. Serve – Garnish with parsley if desired, and serve hot with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ.

📝 Notes

  • Using a wire rack helps the bacon crisp up and prevents sogginess.

  • If you prefer extra caramelization, broil the tenders for the last 2–3 minutes.

  • Thick-cut bacon may take longer to crisp; thin-cut works best.

💡 Tips

  • For meal prep: Marinate chicken strips in a little soy sauce or Italian dressing before wrapping for extra flavor.

  • Try a spicy twist by mixing chili powder or hot sauce into the brown sugar rub.

  • For party appetizers, cut chicken into smaller bites and secure bacon with toothpicks.

  • Line your baking tray well – caramelized sugar can be sticky!

🍴 Servings

  • Makes 4 servings (about 2–3 tenders per person).

📊 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 320

  • Protein: 22g

  • Carbohydrates: 14g

  • Sugars: 12g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Saturated Fat: 6g

  • Sodium: 520mg

  • Fiber: 0g

(Values vary by bacon thickness and sugar amount.)

🌟 Benefits

  • High protein from lean chicken.

  • Crowd-pleaser – a great finger food for parties and gatherings.

  • Balanced flavors – smoky, sweet, and savory all in one bite.

  • Easy prep with just a few ingredients.

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I make these in an air fryer?
A: Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway, until bacon is crispy and chicken is cooked.

Q: Can I use turkey bacon?
A: Yes, but it won’t caramelize as much. Brush with a little maple syrup to help.

Q: Can these be made ahead of time?
A: You can wrap and coat them ahead, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake fresh before serving.

Q: What dipping sauces go best?
A: Ranch, honey mustard, spicy sriracha mayo, or BBQ sauce pair perfectly.

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