Looking for a delicious and addictive snack or appetizer that combines sweet, savory, and crispy flavors? Look no further than these mouthwatering Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. These tenders feature juicy chicken coated in a sticky brown sugar glaze and wrapped in crispy bacon, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.
When it comes to flavor and simplicity, these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a winner. With just five basic ingredients and a preparation time of around 30 minutes, you can create a show-stopping appetizer that will leave everyone wanting more. All you need is boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thick-cut bacon, brown sugar, salt, and pepper—simple and delicious.
Instead of the typical breaded chicken tenders, these unique treats get their crispy texture from the flavorful bacon wrapping, eliminating the need for breading and frying. The bacon adds a smoky and salty dimension that pairs perfectly with the sweet brown sugar coating.
To make these delightful tenders, start by cutting the chicken breasts into strips and coating them with a seasoned brown sugar mixture. Wrap each tender with a slice of bacon and place them in a baking dish. As they bake, the brown sugar caramelizes, forming a delicious glaze that coats the tenders while crisping up the bacon to perfection.
For serving, pair these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders with a creamy ranch dressing, tangy honey mustard, or other delectable dipping sauces like maple syrup, barbecue sauce, or hot honey. These versatile treats are perfect for game day snacks, happy hour nibbles, entertaining, or even as a main course served over salad or rice.
Feel free to customize these tenders by adding cayenne for a spicy kick or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor. No matter how you enjoy them, these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders will become your go-to snack for their irresistible combination of sweet, salty, savory, and crispy elements.
Why You’ll Love This Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Sensational Flavor Profile: Sweet, savory, and crispy in every bite.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: Only 5 ingredients and minimal prep time required.
- Versatile Snack or Main Course: Ideal for various occasions and meal options.
- Addictive and Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for satisfying cravings and impressing guests.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 8 strips thick-cut bacon
How to Make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut chicken breasts into strips.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Coat chicken with brown sugar, salt, and pepper mixture.
Step 3: Wrap in Bacon
Wrap each chicken strip in a bacon slice.
Step 4: Bake
Arrange in a baking dish and bake until bacon is crispy.
Step 5: Serve
Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Storage Options
For leftovers, refrigerate the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders in an airtight container. To reheat, bake in the oven at a low temperature to maintain crispiness.
Variations and Substitutions
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper for heat.
- Flavor Boost: Drizzle with Worcestershire or soy sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free for a celiac-friendly version.
- Healthier Twist: Use turkey bacon for a lighter alternative.
What to Serve With Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Creamy Coleslaw: The cool and creamy slaw balances the rich flavors of the tenders.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A classic side that complements the sweet and savory profile.
- Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred veggies add freshness to the meal.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing beverages to wash down the sticky goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these tenders ahead of time ?
Yes, you can prep the tenders in advance and bake them when ready to serve. - Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon ?
Absolutely, turkey bacon is a suitable alternative. - How do I prevent the bacon from becoming soggy ?
Ensure the bacon is wrapped tightly and cooked at the correct temperature for crispiness. - Can I freeze the cooked tenders ?
While they may lose some crispiness, you can freeze the leftovers and reheat them for a quick snack.
After making these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, you can expect a delightful blend of sweet, salty, and crispy flavors in every bite. The juicy chicken, caramelized glaze, and bacon crispiness create a snacking experience that is truly addictive and satisfying.
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Equipment
- Baking Dish
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 8 strips thick-cut bacon
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into strips.
- Coat chicken with a mixture of brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Wrap each chicken strip with a slice of bacon.
- Arrange wrapped chicken strips in a baking dish and bake until bacon is crispy.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.