Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly grease with olive oil or cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture
- Mix the spices: In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Wrap the Chicken Tenders
- Wrap with bacon: Take each chicken tender and wrap it with a strip of bacon. If the bacon strip is too long, you can cut it to fit. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if necessary.
- Coat with brown sugar mixture: Roll each bacon-wrapped chicken tender in the brown sugar mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the sugar and spices to the bacon.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken Tenders
- Place on baking sheet: Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy and caramelized. You can flip the tenders halfway through the baking time for even cooking.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove from the oven: Carefully remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve hot: Serve the bacon brown sugar chicken tenders hot as an appetizer, snack, or main course. They pair well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Tips for Perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Use thin-cut bacon: Thin-cut bacon crisps up better and wraps around the chicken tenders more easily.
- Monitor the baking time: Keep an eye on the chicken tenders to prevent the brown sugar from burning. If the bacon starts to burn, you can cover the tenders with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
- Let them rest: Allow the tenders to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the juices redistribute and the brown sugar glaze to set.
Conclusion
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delicious and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe ensures a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that will be a hit with everyone. Enjoy making and savoring these delightful chicken tenders with your family and friends!