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Sweet smoky and salty this Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders recipe quickly became my go to for both family dinners and parties. Chicken strips get wrapped in bacon then baked with a brown sugar coating that caramelizes in the oven for juicy bites with irresistible flavor. This dish does not last long at the table and it is surprisingly easy to make with a few basics.
I first made this dish for a game night and everyone ended up begging me for the recipe. Now it is a staple for casual gatherings and movie nights because it disappears fast.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: choose plump pieces for tender strips
- Brown sugar: provides caramelized sweetness opt for fresh moist sugar
- Kosher salt: balances the sweetness and highlights the bacon
- Ground black pepper: adds gentle heat use freshly ground for best flavor
- Bacon: smoky and savory choose regular cut for even wrapping
- Additional bacon tip: Look for bacon with good marbling but not too thick so it crisps up nicely in the oven.
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to fully preheat so the bacon becomes crispy and not soggy.
- Slice the Chicken:
- Place each chicken breast flat on the board then use a sharp knife to carefully slice each one into four long strips. Try to make them even in size so they cook at the same rate.
- Mix the Coating:
- In a mixing bowl add brown sugar kosher salt and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to blend the mixture well making sure there are no brown sugar clumps for even seasoning.
- Coat the Chicken Strips:
- Add the chicken strips into the bowl and toss until each piece is thoroughly coated. Gently press the brown sugar mix onto the surface for maximum caramelization during baking.
- Wrap in Bacon:
- Lay out a strip of bacon and place a coated chicken strip at one end. Roll it up so the bacon wraps around tightly but is not stretched too thin. Place each wrapped piece seam side down into a baking dish to help it stay together as it cooks.
- Add Extra Coating:
- Sprinkle any leftover brown sugar mixture evenly over the top for an extra layer of sweet flavor that bakes into a delicious glaze.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Slide the baking dish into the hot oven and bake for twenty to twenty five minutes. Keep an eye on the bacon—you want it crisp and golden and the chicken cooked through but still juicy. If needed broil for two minutes at the end for super crisp bacon.
I am always amazed at how a simple smoky bacon strip transforms everyday chicken into something special. The combination of crunchy edges and sweet sticky glaze reminds me of my dad’s favorite comfort foods growing up. It quickly became a comfort dish in my own home and my kids now ask for it when they want something extra special.
Storing Your Chicken Tenders
Once baked let the chicken tenders cool to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results reheat in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through and the bacon crisp returns. If you want to freeze these wrap each piece in foil then place them in a freezer bag. When you are ready to eat thaw in the fridge and bake at 375 degrees until hot and crispy.
Ingredient Swaps
You can swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer more juiciness. Turkey bacon works well if you want a lighter option just be aware it will not crisp quite the same. Try spicy brown sugar or toss in a little smoked paprika for an extra kick. If you do not have kosher salt use a pinch less of regular table salt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chicken tenders as a party snack with dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch. For dinner they pair beautifully with roasted potatoes or corn on the cob. You can also slice them after baking and add to salads for a smoky sweet protein boost.
Where This Dish Comes From
Bacon wrapped chicken dishes are classics in Southern and American comfort food traditions. The brown sugar glaze gives a nod to sweet Southern barbecue style while the bacon adds a hearty salty layer. This recipe is all about celebrating big flavors with simple ingredients.
Seasonal Adaptations
Switch to maple bacon in the fall for cozy autumn flavors Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat in winter Use fresh herbs as a garnish in spring and summer During holiday times I arrange the finished tenders on a platter with fresh parsley and sliders for easy festive bites.
Success Stories
A good friend made a triple batch for a Super Bowl party and there was not a single piece left. My neighbor uses this as her go to potluck recipe and always gets compliments. It is the ultimate crowd pleaser because it tastes like something you worked on all day but it comes together in minutes.
Freezer Ready for Busy Weeks
After wrapping the chicken in bacon you can freeze the tenders unbaked on a tray. Once solid place them in bags and bake from frozen adding about ten extra minutes. This is a life saver during hectic weeks when you want a homemade meal without the prep.
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a guaranteed crowd pleaser. With only a few ingredients and easy steps you can have a family favorite with big flavor on the table anytime.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or tenders, but cooking time may vary. Adjust to ensure chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- → How can I make the bacon crispier?
Place the dish on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow heat circulation for extra crispy bacon.
- → Is it possible to prepare in advance?
Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate the wrapped chicken a few hours ahead. Bake just before serving for best results.
- → Can brown sugar be substituted?
Honey or maple syrup can offer a similar sweetness, but may change the texture and flavor profile.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad to balance the rich flavors.