Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken

This bacon brown sugar chicken tenders recipe transforms ordinary chicken into an irresistible sweet and savory dish that disappears minutes after hitting the table. The combination of juicy chicken wrapped in crispy bacon with a caramelized brown sugar coating creates an addictive flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.

I first made these tenders for a football watch party, and they vanished faster than any other dish I served. Since then, they've become my secret weapon for potlucks and family gatherings where I need a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: the leaner option keeps the dish from becoming too rich when paired with bacon
• Brown sugar: creates the caramelized sweet coating that makes these tenders special
• Kosher salt: enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness
• Ground black pepper: adds a subtle warmth and depth
• Bacon strips: use medium thickness for best results, thin bacon can burn while thick cut might not crisp up enough

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F and let it fully preheat while you prepare the chicken. This temperature is crucial for getting the bacon crispy while keeping the chicken tender.

Slice Chicken:

Cut each chicken breast lengthwise into 4 even strips. Try to keep them roughly the same size so they cook evenly. If the chicken breasts are particularly thick, you might want to pound them slightly first.

Season Chicken:

Combine the brown sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl, then toss the chicken strips until they are thoroughly coated on all sides. Make sure each piece gets an even coating of the sweet mixture.

Wrap With Bacon:

Take each sugar coated chicken strip and wrap a piece of bacon around it, starting at one end and spiraling down to the other. The slight stickiness of the brown sugar helps keep the bacon in place.

Arrange And Sprinkle:

Place the wrapped tenders in a baking dish, making sure to leave a little space between each piece. Sprinkle any remaining brown sugar mixture over the tops of the wrapped chicken for extra caramelization.

Bake To Perfection:

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, watching carefully toward the end. The bacon should look crispy and the sugar should be bubbling and caramelized. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F for safety.

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The brown sugar is truly the magic ingredient in this recipe. I once tried making these with maple syrup instead, but the caramelization wasn't nearly as perfect. There's something about how the brown sugar creates that sticky, glossy coating that makes these completely irresistible.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bacon wrapped tenders alongside a fresh green salad to balance the richness. The contrast between the sweet, savory tenders and crisp, tangy greens creates a perfect meal. For a more substantial dinner, pair with roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes that can soak up some of that delicious glaze.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare these tenders up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap the seasoned chicken in bacon, place in a covered container in the refrigerator, and bake when ready. If preparing ahead, take them out of the refrigerator about 15 minutes before baking to let them come closer to room temperature for more even cooking.

Flavor Variations

While the classic brown sugar version is divine, you can customize these tenders with different flavor profiles. Try adding a teaspoon of chili powder to the brown sugar mixture for a sweet heat version, or incorporate a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for tangy undertones. Garlic lovers might appreciate some garlic powder mixed into the brown sugar coating.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. While microwaving works in a pinch, the oven method helps maintain some of the bacon's crispiness. These tenders also freeze well for up to 2 months if wrapped properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a substitute. However, it may not crisp up as much as regular bacon, so you might need to adjust cooking time slightly for the best texture.

→ How do I prevent the brown sugar glaze from burning?

Ensure that your oven temperature is correct and avoid placing the tenders too close to the heating element. Using parchment paper or a baking rack can also help prevent burning.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the chicken tenders with the bacon and brown sugar coating a few hours in advance and refrigerate them. Bake right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

These chicken tenders pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The bacon should also be crispy and golden brown.