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Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set Temperature: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. This setup helps the chicken cook evenly and allows the bacon to crisp up.
2. Season the Chicken
- Mix the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Coat the Chicken: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken tenders, making sure each piece is well-coated with the flavorful blend.
3. Wrap the Chicken in Bacon
- Wrap Each Tender: Take a slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around each seasoned chicken tender. If the bacon slices are long, you can trim the excess or tuck it underneath the chicken.
4. Coat with Brown Sugar
- Add Extra Sweetness: Roll each bacon-wrapped chicken tender in the remaining brown sugar mixture, pressing gently to help the sugar adhere to the bacon.
5. Bake the Chicken Tenders
- Place on the Rack: Arrange the chicken tenders on the wire rack, ensuring they are not touching each other for even cooking.
- Bake: Cook in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through. You can broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness, but watch closely to avoid burning the sugar.
6. Serve
- Cool Slightly and Enjoy: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. They’re delicious on their own, or you can serve them with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Tips for Making the Best Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Use Thin-Cut Bacon: Thinly sliced bacon works best because it crisps up more easily. Thick-cut bacon might take longer to cook and could prevent the chicken from cooking through evenly.
- Spice It Up: For a spicy kick, add more cayenne pepper or use hot smoked paprika in the seasoning blend. You can also drizzle with hot honey before serving.
- Make Them Ahead: You can prepare these chicken tenders in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking. When you’re ready to cook, just pop them in the oven.
Health Considerations
- Use Turkey Bacon: For a lighter option, you can substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon, but be aware that it might not crisp up as much.
- Cut Back on Sugar: If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar, or use a sugar substitute.
- Choose Organic Chicken: Opting for organic chicken tenders adds a healthier touch to this indulgent recipe.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are versatile enough to be served as a party appetizer, a main dish, or a hearty snack. They’re kid-friendly, making them a hit at family gatherings, and adults will love the combination of sweet and savory flavors. Pair them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of mac and cheese for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delicious fusion of flavors that deliver on both sweetness and savory goodness. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bacon-wrapped anything. The result is tender, juicy chicken coated in crispy bacon and caramelized brown sugar—perfect for satisfying your cravings. Give it a go and prepare for a dish that’ll be requested again and again!