Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

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Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: Sweet, Smoky, and Totally Addictive

Juicy chicken wrapped in crispy bacon, coated in a caramelized brown sugar spice rub—your new favorite appetizer or dinner

Introduction: The Ultimate Sweet-and-Savory Bite

Some recipes are born to impress, and this one is no exception. These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the kind of dish that disappears fast—whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, game-day snack, or weeknight dinner. They’re juicy, smoky, sweet, and just a little spicy, with crispy bacon wrapped around tender chicken and a caramelized glaze that’s pure magic.

Best of all? They’re easy to make, require minimal prep, and bake up beautifully in the oven. No frying, no fuss—just bold flavor and irresistible texture in every bite.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these chicken tenders so crave-worthy:

Chicken:

  • Chicken tenders (1 lb)
    Lean, juicy, and perfectly sized for wrapping and baking.

Tip: You can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced into strips.

Bacon:

  • Bacon slices (8–10)
    Smoky and savory—crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Optional: Use thick-cut bacon for extra chew or turkey bacon for a lighter version.

Brown Sugar Spice Rub:

  • Brown sugar (½ cup)
    Adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized glaze.
  • Paprika (1 tsp)
    Adds color and a subtle smoky flavor.
  • Garlic powder (1 tsp)
    Enhances the savory notes.
  • Black pepper (½ tsp)
    Adds a little bite and balances the sweetness.
  • Cayenne pepper (pinch, optional)
    Adds heat and depth—adjust to taste.

Tip: Mix the rub thoroughly to ensure even coating.

Equipment Needed

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or foil
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Oven

Optional: Wire rack for extra crispiness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Tip: Use a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to allow air circulation and crispier bacon.

Step 2: Make the Spice Rub

In a bowl:

  • Combine ½ cup brown sugar, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne (if using).

Mix well until evenly blended.

Optional: Add a pinch of dried thyme or onion powder for extra flavor.

Step 3: Wrap the Chicken

Take each chicken tender and wrap it tightly with 1 slice of bacon.

Secure with a toothpick if needed.

Roll the wrapped tender in the brown sugar spice mix, coating all sides.

Tip: Press gently to help the rub stick to the bacon.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.

Leave space between each piece for even cooking.

Bake for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until:

  • Bacon is crispy
  • Chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C)

Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the tenders rest for 5 minutes before serving.

This allows the glaze to set and the juices to redistribute.

Serve hot with:

  • Ranch or honey mustard dipping sauce
  • Coleslaw or potato salad
  • Cornbread or garlic bread

Yields:

  • 4–6 servings

Presentation Tip: Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Game day snacks
  • Party appetizers
  • Weeknight dinners
  • Potluck dishes

Pair with:

  • Sweet potato fries
  • Mac and cheese
  • Grilled corn
  • Iced tea or cold beer

Tip: Serve on a platter with dipping sauces for a crowd-friendly setup.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Spicy BBQ Tenders

Add BBQ sauce and extra cayenne to the rub.

Tropical Twist

Add crushed pineapple or pineapple juice to the rub.

Garlic Herb Tenders

Add Italian seasoning and fresh garlic to the mix.

Keto Version

Use sugar-free brown sugar substitute and turkey bacon.

Mini Bites

Cut tenders in half and wrap with half a slice of bacon for bite-sized pieces.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 1 day in advance.
  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze cooked tenders for up to 1 month. Reheat in oven for best texture.

Tip: Reheat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 6)

  • Calories: ~320
  • Protein: ~25g
  • Carbohydrates: ~12g
  • Fat: ~20g
  • Sugar: ~10g
  • Sodium: ~450mg
  • Fiber: ~1g

These tenders are:

  • Sweet and smoky
  • Crispy and juicy
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are more than just a recipe—they’re a flavor-packed experience. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, they’re guaranteed to satisfy and impress.

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