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Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Cook the Bacon
- Cook Until Crispy: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave a tablespoon of bacon drippings in the pan for added flavor.
3. Prepare the Chicken Tenders
- Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked bacon and mix until well combined.
- Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken tender and coat it in the bacon and brown sugar mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks well.
4. Bake the Chicken Tenders
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is caramelized and crispy.
5. Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
- Mix Ingredients: While the chicken is baking, prepare the dipping sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Serve
- Enjoy Hot: Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with the dipping sauce on the side.
Tips for the Perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Use High-Quality Bacon: The flavor of the bacon is key to this dish, so choose a good-quality bacon for the best results.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste.
- Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Depending on the thickness of the chicken tenders, cooking times may vary. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the brown sugar mixture for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the coating for added flavor.
- Grilling Option: For a summer cookout, consider grilling the chicken tenders instead of baking them. Just ensure the bacon is cooked beforehand to get that crispy texture.
Why You’ll Love Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet brown sugar and salty bacon creates a mouthwatering balance that is hard to resist.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: With their sweet and savory flavors, these chicken tenders are a hit with kids, making them a great choice for family meals.
Health Considerations
- Moderation: While delicious, these chicken tenders are indulgent due to the bacon and sugar, so enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
- Lean Protein: Chicken tenders provide a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Conclusion
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors in every bite. Easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, these tenders are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you serve them as a snack, an appetizer, or a main course, they’re guaranteed to impress your family and friends. So gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and treat yourself to this irresistible recipe that brings comfort food to a whole new level!