Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: The Ultimate Recipe Guide

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will redefine your weeknight dinners! Imagine juicy, tender chicken, perfectly caramelized with the smoky sweetness of bacon and brown sugar. It’s a symphony of savory and sweet that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds.

While the exact origins of combining bacon, brown sugar, and chicken are somewhat shrouded in delicious mystery, the concept of glazing meats with sweet and savory elements has been around for centuries. Think of honey-glazed ham or maple-glazed salmon – the principle is the same: creating a delightful contrast that tantalizes the taste buds. This particular combination has gained immense popularity in recent years, likely due to its simplicity and the undeniable appeal of bacon!

What makes Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors, of course! The salty, crispy bacon complements the rich, molasses-like sweetness of the brown sugar, while the chicken provides a tender and satisfying base. But beyond the taste, these chicken tenders are incredibly convenient. They’re quick to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even a fun appetizer. I promise, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders
• 1 lb thick-cut bacon, cut into thirds
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Red pepper flakes, to taste (for a little heat!)
• Optional: Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Bacon Brown Sugar Glaze:

Okay, let’s get started with the heart of this recipe – the bacon brown sugar glaze! This is where the magic happens, transforming ordinary chicken tenders into something truly special. Trust me, you’ll want to lick the spoon (and maybe the pan!).

1. Render the Bacon: In a large skillet (cast iron works great!), cook the bacon pieces over medium heat until they are crispy and have rendered most of their fat. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Be patient and don’t overcrowd the pan; you might need to do this in batches. We want that bacon nice and crispy!
2. Remove Bacon and Reserve Fat: Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Don’t discard the bacon fat in the skillet! We’re going to use it to build even more flavor. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet; discard the rest (or save it for another delicious use!).
3. Create the Glaze Base: Reduce the heat to low. Add the brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper to the skillet with the bacon fat.
4. Simmer and Thicken: Stir all the ingredients together until the brown sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Let the glaze simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Be careful not to burn the sugar! If it starts to bubble too vigorously, reduce the heat even further.
5. Adjust Seasoning (Optional): Taste the glaze and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. If it’s too salty, add a splash of apple cider vinegar. If it’s not sweet enough, add a little more brown sugar. Remember, you’re the chef!
6. Set Aside: Remove the glaze from the heat and set it aside. We’ll use it later to coat the chicken.

Preparing the Chicken Tenders:

Now that our glaze is ready, let’s focus on the chicken. We want to make sure the tenders are prepped perfectly for maximum flavor absorption.

1. Pat Dry: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear and preventing the chicken from steaming instead of browning.
2. Season Lightly: Lightly season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper. Remember, the glaze is already packed with flavor, so we don’t need to go overboard here.

Wrapping and Baking the Chicken:

This is where the magic really happens! Wrapping the chicken in bacon and baking it in the glaze creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

1. Wrap the Chicken: Wrap each chicken tender with a piece of cooked bacon. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if necessary. This will help the bacon stay in place during baking.
2. Arrange in Baking Dish: Arrange the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders in a single layer in a baking dish. I recommend using a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Coat with Glaze: Pour the bacon brown sugar glaze evenly over the chicken tenders, making sure each tender is well coated.
4. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Broil (Optional): For extra crispy bacon, broil the chicken tenders for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Serving and Enjoying:

The moment we’ve all been waiting for! Time to serve up these delicious bacon brown sugar chicken tenders and enjoy the fruits of our labor.

1. Remove Toothpicks: If you used toothpicks to secure the bacon, remove them before serving.
2. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the chicken tenders immediately while they are hot and the glaze is still gooey and delicious.
4. Pairing Suggestions: These chicken tenders are fantastic on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with:
   • Mashed potatoes
   • Rice
   • Roasted vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts)
   • Coleslaw
   • Mac and cheese
5. Storage: Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders:

• Choose Thick-Cut Bacon: Thick-cut bacon will hold its shape better during cooking and provide a more satisfying bite.
• Don’t Overcook the Bacon: We want the bacon to be crispy, but not burnt. Keep a close eye on it while it’s cooking.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
• Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the glaze and wrap the chicken tenders with bacon ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings in the glaze. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or cloves for a unique flavor.

Variations:

• Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites: Cut the chicken tenders into smaller pieces before wrapping them in bacon for bite-sized appetizers.
• Grilled Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: Grill the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders over medium heat until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. Baste with the glaze during the last few minutes of grilling.
• Air Fryer Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: Air fry the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.

Why This Recipe Works:

This recipe is a winner because it combines the irresistible flavors of bacon, brown sugar, and chicken in a simple and easy-to-make dish. The bacon provides a salty and smoky flavor, while the brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness and caramelization. The Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar add a tangy balance to the glaze, and the smoked paprika and garlic powder provide depth of flavor. The result is a dish that is both savory and sweet, crispy and tender, and utterly addictive!

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or any occasion where you want to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are truly a game-changer. I know, I know, I might be biased, but trust me on this one. The combination of crispy bacon, sweet brown sugar, and juicy chicken is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that disappears in minutes, leaving everyone wanting more.

But why is this recipe a must-try? It’s more than just a tasty meal; it’s an experience. The smoky bacon perfectly complements the caramelized sweetness of the brown sugar, creating a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! We’re talking minimal prep time and simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend treat. Forget ordering takeout; these tenders are faster, healthier, and infinitely more delicious.

Beyond the incredible flavor, these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile. Looking for serving suggestions? Serve them as an appetizer with a creamy honey mustard dipping sauce or a tangy BBQ sauce. They’re also fantastic as a main course alongside mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. For a lighter option, try them on top of a fresh salad with a vinaigrette dressing.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with variations to make this recipe your own. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture. If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, try using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. You could even wrap the chicken in different types of bacon, like turkey bacon or even a spicy jalapeno bacon, to add a unique twist. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can substitute the brown sugar with a sugar-free alternative, though it might slightly alter the caramelization.

Serving Ideas:

* Appetizer: Serve with honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.
* Main Course: Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
* Salad Topping: Add to a fresh salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
* Sandwich Filling: Slice and use as a filling for sliders or wraps.
* Party Platter: Arrange on a platter with other appetizers for a crowd-pleasing snack.

Variations:

* Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture.
* Smoky: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
* Different Bacon: Experiment with turkey bacon, jalapeno bacon, or other flavored bacons.
* Sugar-Free: Substitute brown sugar with a sugar-free alternative (adjust cooking time as needed).
* Herb Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the bacon mixture for an earthy flavor.

I truly believe that once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a crowd-pleaser, a time-saver, and most importantly, it’s absolutely delicious. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! And I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve them with? What did your family and friends think? Please, share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me create even better recipes for you in the future. Happy cooking! Let me know what you think of this Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders recipe!

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