Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

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Juicy chicken tenders wrapped in smoky bacon, coated in brown sugar and spices, then baked until sticky, sweet, and irresistible.

 Prep Time: 15 minutes

 Cook Time: 30–35 minutes

 Total Time: 45–50 minutes

 Servings: 4–6 (12 tenders)

 Calories: ~280 per tender

Ingredients

 Chicken:

  • 12 raw chicken tenders (or 3 large chicken breasts sliced into strips)

  • 12 slices of thin-cut bacon

 Coating:

  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat to 375°F (190°C).

  • Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top (to help the bacon crisp). Lightly spray with oil.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

  1. Pat chicken tenders dry.

  2. Season lightly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 3: Wrap with Bacon

  1. Wrap each tender tightly with one slice of bacon. Start at one end and spiral-wrap it to the other.

  2. Secure with toothpicks if needed (especially if the bacon is thick or loose).

Step 4: Coat with Brown Sugar

  1. Mix brown sugar, paprika, and chili powder in a shallow bowl.

  2. Roll each bacon-wrapped tender in the mixture, pressing to coat generously.

  3. Place seam-side down on the rack.

Step 5: Bake

  • Bake for 30–35 minutes, turning once halfway through for even caramelization.

  • For crispier bacon, broil for an extra 2–3 minutes at the end.

Step 6: Serve

  • Let rest 5 minutes.

  • Serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ.

Tips & Tricks

  • Rack Advantage: Use a wire rack over a lined pan to let bacon fat drip off and keep things crispy.

  • Avoid Overcrowding: Leave space between tenders so they cook and caramelize evenly.

  • Make It Spicier: Add cayenne or hot sauce to the brown sugar mix.

  • Make Ahead: Assemble the tenders and refrigerate (unbaked) up to 24 hours in advance.

Variations

Style Swap or Add
Maple Bacon Tenders Drizzle with maple syrup before baking
Sweet & Spicy Add cayenne or sriracha to the sugar mix
Savory Herb Add rosemary or thyme for a holiday twist
Cheesy Bites Sprinkle with Parmesan before baking

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve as a party appetizer, game day snack, or a dinner main.

  • Pair with:

    • Coleslaw

    • Mac & cheese

    • Cornbread

    • Roasted potatoes or veggie skewers

Storage & Reheating

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Reheat: Use an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 6–8 minutes until warmed through and crisp again.

  • Freezing: Freeze after baking and cool completely. Reheat from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes.

Nutrition Estimate (Per Tender)

  • Calories: 280

  • Protein: 18g

  • Carbs: 9g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Sugar: 7g

  • Sodium: 500mg

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