Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

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Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Sweet, smoky, sticky, and completely addictive

These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the perfect balance of savory bacon, caramelized brown sugar, and juicy chicken. They’re incredibly easy to make and always disappear fast—great for dinner, parties, or game day.

Ingredients

  • 1½–2 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 1 lb bacon (thin-cut works best)
  • ¾ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (optional, for heat)
  • Cooking spray or foil for pan

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
  • Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top (optional but helps crisp bacon)

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix:

  • Brown sugar
  • Garlic powder
  • Smoked paprika
  • Black pepper
  • Chili powder (if using)

Lightly coat chicken tenders with the mixture.

Step 3: Wrap with Bacon

Wrap each chicken tender tightly with one strip of bacon.
Place seam-side down on the rack or pan.

Tip: If bacon is long, cut strips in half.

Step 4: Add Brown Sugar Coating

Sprinkle extra brown sugar generously over each wrapped tender.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 30–35 minutes, turning once halfway.

For extra caramelization:

  • Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end (watch closely!)

How to Know They’re Done

  • Bacon is crisp and caramelized
  • Chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally
  • Sugar is bubbling and sticky (not burnt)

Flavor & Texture

  • Juicy chicken inside
  • Crispy bacon outside
  • Sticky, sweet-savory glaze
  • Slight smoky heat if spices are added

Pro Tips for Best Results

  • Use thin-cut bacon so it crisps fully
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—space = crispiness
  • If sugar browns too fast, tent loosely with foil
  • Drain on paper towels for cleaner bites

Delicious Variations

  • Maple Bacon: Replace half the brown sugar with maple syrup
  • Spicy-Sweet: Add cayenne or hot honey drizzle
  • BBQ Style: Brush with BBQ sauce in last 10 minutes
  • Air Fryer: 380°F for 14–16 minutes, flipping once

Serving Ideas

  • Mashed potatoes or mac & cheese
  • Roasted green beans or asparagus
  • Party appetizer with toothpicks
  • Drizzle with honey or hot honey

Storage & Reheating

  • Fridge: Up to 3 days in airtight container
  • Reheat: Oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or air fryer for crisping
  • Avoid microwave (softens bacon)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Thick bacon → undercooked bacon
  • High heat too early → burnt sugar
  • Skipping the rack → greasy bottom

Why This Recipe Works

Brown sugar melts into a glaze while bacon fat bastes the chicken, keeping it moist. The result is perfectly balanced sweet, salty, smoky flavor in every bite.

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