Sarah BrownThere’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into bacon brown sugar chicken tenders. But it’s the sides that can really elevate this dish to a culinary masterpiece. Think light and refreshing: a crisp garden salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. Or how about roasted Brussels sprouts?
They provide the perfect balance with their earthy notes. You could even serve these tenders alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or grilled corn on the cob for a more indulgent experience. No matter what you choose, remember that the goal is to complement the honeyed and smoky flavors of the chicken.
Welcome, fellow food adventurers! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the hunt for that perfect dish that screams flavor and comfort. Enter the world of bacon brown sugar chicken tenders. As a food enthusiast and a registered dietitian, I appreciate a recipe that delights the palate and nourishes the body.
You might think this has a hefty calorie count, but don’t fret—we’ll also explore healthier options. I still remember the first time I made these tenders. The sweet smoky aroma filled my kitchen, hypnotizing everyone in the vicinity. It’s true: you can have your bacon and eat it too, in a way that your taste buds will thank you for!
Let’s get started!
What Are Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
Bacon brown sugar chicken tenders are chicken strips wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in a sweet, caramelized brown sugar glaze. The contrast of the savory, salty bacon with the sweet brown sugar creates a mouthwatering experience that hits all the right notes.
A sprinkle of garlic and thyme heightens the taste, making this dish not just a meal but a flavor celebration.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
You might wonder what sets my version apart from the countless others you might find online. Well, I prioritize quality ingredients and simple methods. The applewood-smoked bacon adds a rich flavor, vastly superior to standard bacon.
And don’t even get me started on the balance of sweet and savory! Instead of simply throwing brown sugar on chicken pieces, I incorporate spices that enhance the flavor without masking it. This isn’t just another run-of-the-mill recipe; it embodies balance and deliciousness.
How Does It Taste?
Imagine biting into a tender piece of chicken, juicy and flavorful. The bacon is crispy and bursts with a smoky essence, while the brown sugar adds a background note that brings everything together. You might taste hints of garlic and thyme at play, elevating it beyond the basic bacon or chicken dish. It makes every mouthful exciting. Let’s just say, if you fancy both sweet and savory flavors, this dish will not disappoint.
You will also like the following Lunch and Dinner recipes!
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
Before we dive into the cooking, let’s gather our essentials. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 slices of applewood-smoked bacon (not thick-cut)
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder (preferably roasted)
- 1 ½ teaspoons onion powder
- ½ teaspoon fine kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (or smoked paprika for a milder, smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
With those ingredients in hand, let’s get cooking!
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First off, preheat your oven to 400°F (about 200°C). This ensures your chicken tenders come out crispy and delightful.
Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken
While the oven is heating up, take your boneless chicken breasts and slice them into tenders. Aim for even cuts so they cook uniformly. It’s tempting to skip this step and use whole breasts, but trust me, tenders are where the magic happens.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and dried thyme. Mix it up nicely. Then, sprinkle this seasoning blend over your sliced chicken tenders, making sure each piece is well-coated.
Step 4: Wrap the Chicken with Bacon
Now comes the fun part! Grab a strip of bacon and wrap it around each chicken tender. Try to cover as much of the chicken as possible. The bacon will render its fat while cooking, aiding in the flavor and moisture of the chicken.
Step 5: Brown Sugar Coating
In a separate bowl, take your packed light brown sugar and stir in the Dijon mustard to create a paste. This will act as the adhesive for that delicious caramelizing effect. Take your bacon-wrapped chicken tenders and dip them into the brown sugar mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated and ready for the oven.
Step 6: Bake the Tenders
Position your prepared chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place them in the preheated oven and let them bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once they’re out of the oven, let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Then, you can serve these succulent delights hot—perhaps with your chosen sides.
Tips & Tricks On Making Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Choose Quality Ingredients: The best dishes start with top-notch ingredients. Opt for high-quality bacon and fresh chicken for maximum flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Bacon: If you find your bacon isn’t getting crispy enough in the oven, broil the tenders for 2–3 minutes at the end of cooking. Just watch closely to avoid burning.
- Add More Flavor: Feel free to mix in different spices or herbs. Some fresh rosemary or parsley could provide a delightful twist!
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up. The melted sugar can get sticky, and this makes life so much easier.
- Experiment with Spices: Switch up cayenne for chili powder or add in some cumin for a hearty kick. There’s no end to the flavor possibilities!
Nutrition Information
Health doesn’t have to be sacrificed for taste. Each serving of these bacon brown sugar chicken tenders contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 18g (mostly from bacon)
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 14g
This dish can fit comfortably into most balanced diets, particularly if accompanied by lighter sides.
How Do I Store This Dish?
Leftovers? No problem! Store your chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer preservation, freeze them in a well-sealed container or a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
If you’re out of something or looking for simpler variations, here are a few substitute options:
- Turkey Bacon: If you prefer a leaner option, try using turkey bacon for a similar flavor profile with less fat.
- Chicken Thighs: They are juicier and could provide a richer taste if you want to mix it up from chicken breasts.
- Maple Syrup: For a different sweetness, substitute maple syrup for brown sugar. It caramelizes beautifully.
- Hot Sauce: Add a few dashes of hot sauce into the brown sugar mixture for a spicy-sweet surprise.
- Vegetarian Option: Try wrapping veggies like zucchini or eggplant in bacon for a meaty bite that’s still plant-based.
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Equipment
- Oven
- Bowl
Ingredients
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 12 slices of applewood-smoked bacon not thick-cut
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder preferably roasted
- 1 ½ teaspoons onion powder
- ½ teaspoon fine kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a milder, smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- First off, preheat your oven to 400°F (about 200°C). This ensures your chicken tenders come out crispy and delightful.
Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken
- While the oven is heating up, take your boneless chicken breasts and slice them into tenders. Aim for even cuts so they cook uniformly. It’s tempting to skip this step and use whole breasts, but trust me, tenders are where the magic happens.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
- In a medium bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and dried thyme. Mix it up nicely. Then, sprinkle this seasoning blend over your sliced chicken tenders, making sure each piece is well-coated.
Step 4: Wrap the Chicken with Bacon
- Now comes the fun part! Grab a strip of bacon and wrap it around each chicken tender. Try to cover as much of the chicken as possible. The bacon will render its fat while cooking, aiding in the flavor and moisture of the chicken.
Step 5: Brown Sugar Coating
- In a separate bowl, take your packed light brown sugar and stir in the Dijon mustard to create a paste. This will act as the adhesive for that delicious caramelizing effect. Take your bacon-wrapped chicken tenders and dip them into the brown sugar mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated and ready for the oven.
Step 6: Bake the Tenders
- Position your prepared chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place them in the preheated oven and let them bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Once they’re out of the oven, let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Then, you can serve these succulent delights hot—perhaps with your chosen sides.
Notes
- Choose Quality Ingredients: The best dishes start with top-notch ingredients. Opt for high-quality bacon and fresh chicken for maximum flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Bacon: If you find your bacon isn’t getting crispy enough in the oven, broil the tenders for 2–3 minutes at the end of cooking. Just watch closely to avoid burning.
- Add More Flavor: Feel free to mix in different spices or herbs. Some fresh rosemary or parsley could provide a delightful twist!
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up. The melted sugar can get sticky, and this makes life so much easier.
- Experiment with Spices: Switch up cayenne for chili powder or add in some cumin for a hearty kick. There’s no end to the flavor possibilities!
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Cooking from frozen is not recommended here, as it can lead to uneven cooking.
2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free assuming that the Dijon mustard used is gluten-free. Verify all ingredients and opt for a gluten-free brand if necessary.
3. Can I bake these tenders in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Cook the tenders for about 15–18 minutes, checking occasionally. This will also give you a crispy bite.
4. Is there a way to make these tenders healthier?
To make them healthier, try using less brown sugar or swap it for a sugar substitute. You could also bake instead of frying or using less bacon.
5. Can these tenders be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge before baking. Just make sure to increase the baking time a bit for cold tenders.
Conclusion
Bacon brown sugar chicken tenders are a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. They bring out the inner chef in anyone, regardless of skill level. It’s time to gather those ingredients and dive into this scrumptious recipe—your taste buds are in for a treat! Whether you pair them with a fresh salad or some indulgent mashed potatoes, these tenders are bound to be a hit. Give it a whirl, and enjoy the crispy, sweet goodness!
