Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe

If there’s one dish guaranteed to win over absolutely everyone at the table, it’s Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. This irresistible combination of juicy chicken, smoky bacon, and a caramelized brown sugar crust delivers every bite with crunch, sweetness, and a hint of savory spice. Whether you’re prepping an easy weeknight dinner or an epic game day snack, these tenders bring comfort and flavor in every sticky-sweet mouthful, making them one of those recipes you’ll crave and come back to again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something truly special. Every component in this lineup matters—the chicken brings tenderness, the bacon gives sizzle and depth, while spices and brown sugar deliver that crave-worthy sweet and savory finish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken tenders: These are the star of the show, offering juicy bites that soak up all the flavors beautifully.
• Thick-cut bacon: The extra heft means each tender gets fully wrapped for a crisp, meaty exterior.
• Light brown sugar: This is what transforms during baking, forming a sweet, caramelized crust that balances the saltiness of the bacon.
• Chili powder: Adds a subtle kick and a hint of warmth, preventing the dish from tasting one-note.
• Garlic powder: For underlying savoriness and a depth that brings the flavors together.
• Salt and pepper: Essential basics to make every bite sing—don’t skip even if you’re tempted!
• Cooking spray or oil: Keeps everything from sticking and ensures your chicken tenders come off the pan clean and crispy.

How to Make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly coat it with cooking spray or a drizzle of oil. This setup ensures easy cleanup and helps the bacon crisp up perfectly without sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Brown Sugar Coating

In a shallow dish, stir together the brown sugar with chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mix becomes an instantly aromatic rub, infusing your chicken tenders with sweetness, warmth, and a gentle zing in every bite.

Step 3: Wrap and Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken tender and wrap it snugly with a strip of bacon, tucking the end underneath to hold it in place. Next, roll each bacon-wrapped tender in the brown sugar mixture, gently pressing so the coating really sticks to all sides. Gentle pressure will ensure you get that signature caramelized crust.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Give them a little room so the hot air can circulate, helping the bacon render and the sugar melt into a gorgeous glaze. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway, until the bacon is crisp and the chicken is cooked through to 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Let Rest and Enjoy!

After baking, let your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders rest for a couple of minutes on the pan—they’ll continue to firm up and set that irresistible sticky crust. Now you’re ready to dive in!

How to Serve Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

A finishing touch matters! Sprinkle your chicken tenders with freshly chopped parsley, sliced green onions, or a pinch of flaky sea salt right after baking for pops of color and a little extra burst of flavor. A drizzle of honey or a pinch more chili powder can also take things to the next level if you love extra sweet-heat.

Side Dishes

The indulgent, finger-licking flavor of Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders pairs beautifully with crunchy slaws, creamy mashed potatoes, or a big green salad. For gatherings, try setting out a tray with celery and carrot sticks, plus a tangy ranch or blue cheese dip to balance out the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with your presentation! Slide each tender onto a wooden skewer for an easy appetizer platter or slice them and pile onto slider buns with crisp lettuce for sensational mini sandwiches. For a brunch twist, serve alongside fluffy waffles and maple syrup for a sweet-savory mashup that’s unforgettable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders left (which is rare!), transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to three days, and make a fabulous grab-and-go snack or lunchbox treat.

Freezing

For longer storage, let the cooked tenders cool completely, then lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once hard, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders will keep well for about a month—just thaw before reheating.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, reheat your tenders in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and sizzling. Skip the microwave if you can, as it tends to soften that luscious bacon crust you worked so hard to achieve!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts or thighs instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Just slice chicken breasts or thighs into even strips so they cook at the same rate as tenders. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, depending on thickness.

Will turkey bacon work in this recipe?

Turkey bacon can be substituted for a lighter version, but keep in mind it won’t crisp up quite as much as traditional pork bacon. It will still deliver great flavor and can make the recipe a bit more heart-healthy.

How spicy do these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders turn out?

The chili powder adds gentle warmth rather than heat, but feel free to increase the amount, or add a pinch of cayenne, if you like a spicier kick.

Is there a way to make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your spices and bacon labels to be sure. Serve them with a gluten-free dipping sauce or roll up in gluten-free wraps to enjoy safely.

Can I grill these instead of baking?

You can! Grill over medium heat, turning often and keeping a close eye so the sugar doesn’t burn. It adds a smoky dimension and caramelizes the coating even more—perfect for outdoor gatherings.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a recipe that’s fabulously simple yet totally crowd-pleasing, you can’t go wrong with Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. Don’t be surprised if they disappear as soon as they hit the table! Grab a pack of chicken, your favorite thick-cut bacon, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

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