Bacon Brown Sugar Tenders

Bacon Brown Sugar Tenders make any meal feel like a celebration. These bacon-wrapped chicken strips are coated in brown sugar and spices then baked until crispy and caramelized. Perfect for parties or a fun dinner, this recipe brings a sweet and savory flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

The first time I made these was for a movie night and the plate was empty within minutes. Now I make extra every time since even picky eaters never resist.

Ingredients

• Chicken tenders or chicken breasts sliced into strips: Choose fresh chicken with a pale pink color and avoid any gray areas
• Bacon: Use a regular cut not thick or thin so it cooks evenly with the chicken
• Brown sugar: Light or dark both work for rich caramelized flavor
• Garlic powder: Adds a sharp flavor base opt for granulated for better distribution
• Onion powder: Brings subtle sweetness and depth
• Smoked paprika: Enhances the smokiness and adds color go for fresh spice
• Salt and pepper: Provides seasoning adjust to your taste
• Olive oil or melted butter: Helps crisp the bacon and adds richness use extra virgin olive oil for better taste
• Chopped parsley: Optional for freshness and bright green color choose freshly chopped over dried

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease lightly to keep the chicken from sticking

Season the Chicken:

Sprinkle chicken tenders with salt pepper garlic powder onion powder and smoked paprika. Be thorough so each piece gets well coated for full flavor

Wrap in Bacon:

Take one slice of bacon and carefully wrap it around a chicken strip stretching to cover most of the meat. You can secure each end with a toothpick if you want to keep the wrap tight

Coat with Brown Sugar:

Spread brown sugar in a shallow bowl. Roll each bacon wrapped chicken tender into the sugar gently pressing so it adheres. If you have extra sugar sprinkle it on top for added caramelization

Drizzle for Crispiness:

Lay the bacon wrapped tenders on your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle a bit of olive oil or melted butter over the top this helps encourage browning and crisp texture

Bake and Flip:

Bake for about twenty five to thirty minutes. About halfway through flip each piece so the bacon cooks evenly and caramelizes on all sides. You want the chicken to reach at least one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit inside

Broil for Finish:

For even crispier bacon place under the broiler for two to three minutes toward the end. Watch closely so the sugar does not burn

Serve and Enjoy:

Drizzle any pan juices over the finished tenders. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Serve hot and savor every bite

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I always love the hint of smoked paprika in this dish because it gives a backyard barbecue aroma even in the oven. My niece called these magic meat sticks during a family party once and now the name has stuck in our house.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers let them cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These keep well for up to three days and can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want the bacon to stay crunchy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Maple syrup can be used in place of some brown sugar for a different sweetness. If you do not have smoked paprika try a pinch of chili powder for gentle heat. Turkey bacon works if you want to lighten things up though you may need to brush with oil for better browning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these tenders over a salad for a satisfying main dish or as an appetizer on a big platter with toothpicks. They are also delicious stacked on slider buns with crunchy slaw for a memorable sandwich. Sometimes I pair them with roasted potatoes and a tangy dipping sauce to balance the sweetness.

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This recipe is a guaranteed hit that turns simple ingredients into unforgettable bites every time. The combination of flavors and textures never fails to impress whether you are serving a big crowd or just your family at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of chicken works best?

Chicken tenders or breast strips are ideal, as they cook quickly and stay juicy when wrapped in bacon.

→ How do I keep the bacon crispy?

Flip the chicken halfway through baking and broil briefly at the end for a crispy finish without overcooking.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can wrap the chicken and coat with sugar in advance, then bake just before serving for best texture.

→ Is it possible to use turkey bacon?

Turkey bacon can be used but may cook faster, so monitor closely to avoid drying out and ensure crispiness.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Simple salads, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes complement the sweet and smoky flavors beautifully.

→ How do I prevent sticking during baking?

Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to help the tenders release easily after baking.