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Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe

Olivia Brooks
Make dinner exciting with this Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe using juicy chicken, smoky bacon, brown sugar, and easy seasonings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 408 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet or roasting pan
  • Aluminum foil (for easy cleanup)
  • Wire rack (optional, but helps crisp the bacon evenly)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons.
  • Tongs
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Pastry brush (optional, for glaze)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders fresh is best, but thawed frozen works too
  • 12 slices bacon regular cut, not thick-cut, so it cooks evenly
  • ¾ cup light brown sugar packed
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder optional, for a gentle heat
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter

Instructions
 

  • Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheet with aluminum foil. Trust me, future-you will thank present-you for this step. If you’re using a wire rack, place it on top of the foil-lined sheet.
  • Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and keeps everything from steaming instead of roasting.
  • In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and chili powder if you’re using it. This blend smells amazing already, warm and cozy.
  • Lightly brush the chicken tenders with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture generously over each piece, pressing it gently so it sticks.
  • Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon, starting at one end and spiraling down. Place the wrapped tenders seam-side down on the baking sheet or rack.
  • Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, then flip each tender carefully using tongs. Bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the sugar has caramelized into a glossy glaze.
  • If you want extra crispiness, turn on the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye so nothing burns.
  • Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. That glaze is hot and sticky, and the flavors settle beautifully with a short rest.
Keyword Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe