Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This allows the bacon to cook evenly and the chicken to crisp up.
Step 2: Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Wrap the Chicken Tenders
- Wrap with Bacon: Take one chicken tender and wrap it with a slice of bacon, starting at one end and spiraling to the other end. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if necessary.
- Coat with Brown Sugar Mixture: Roll the bacon-wrapped chicken tender in the brown sugar mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Place it on the wire rack on the baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining chicken tenders.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken Tenders
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through. You may need to turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes to crisp up the bacon further. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serve
- Cool Slightly: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Serve: Transfer the bacon brown sugar chicken tenders to a serving platter. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the brown sugar mixture for a spicy kick.
- Honey Mustard Dip: Serve with a honey mustard dipping sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor combination.
- Cheese Addition: Add a slice of cheese on top of each chicken tender before wrapping with bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
- Crispier Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, partially cook the bacon slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes before wrapping the chicken tenders.
Conclusion
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This simple recipe ensures flavorful, sweet, and savory chicken tenders with minimal effort. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful tenders with your family and friends.
Key Takeaway
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders offer a quick, easy, and satisfying meal or appetizer that’s full of sweet and savory flavors. This versatile recipe can be customized with various seasonings and cooking techniques to suit your taste. Enjoy the crispy, juicy goodness of homemade bacon-wrapped chicken tenders!