Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Introduction

Delight your taste buds with a delicious recipe for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, a dish that combines the savory goodness of chicken with the sweet and smoky flavors of bacon and brown sugar. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these chicken tenders are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound bacon, cut in half
• Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Recipe

To prepare the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Take each chicken tender, wrap it in a piece of bacon, and coat it in the brown sugar mixture. Place the coated tenders on a greased baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.

Conclusion

These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them an irresistible dish for any occasion. Serve them with your favorite sides and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will love.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Tenders

Pat the chicken tenders dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps in achieving a crispy texture.

Step 3: Mix the Seasonings

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, garlic powder, ground black pepper, and paprika. This mixture will create a flavorful coating for the chicken.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken tenders, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Wrap the Chicken in Bacon

Take each seasoned chicken tender and wrap it with a slice of bacon. Secure the ends with toothpicks if needed to ensure the bacon stays in place during cooking.

Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking.

Step 7: Bake in the Oven

Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious flavor combination.

Notes

Note 1: Chicken Substitute

You can use chicken breasts cut into strips as an alternative to chicken tenders if preferred.

Note 2: Bacon Type

Feel free to use any type of bacon you prefer, including turkey bacon for a lighter option.

Note 3: Serving Suggestions

These bacon brown sugar chicken tenders pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard.

Related Recipe Ideas

If you enjoyed making bacon brown sugar chicken tenders, consider trying other variations such as stuffed chicken breasts filled with cheese and herbs or grilled chicken skewers with a sweet marinade for a delightful twist on your next meal.

Cook techniques

Marinating

Marinating the chicken tenders in a mixture of brown sugar, garlic powder, and salt helps to infuse them with flavor and keep them tender during cooking.

Pan-Frying

Pan-frying the chicken tenders in a skillet allows for a crispy exterior while maintaining juiciness on the inside.

Baking

Baking the chicken tenders in the oven after pan-frying helps to ensure they are cooked through while keeping them moist and tender.

Garnishing

Garnishing with fresh herbs before serving adds a burst of color and extra flavor to the dish.

FAQ

Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup, but it might alter the final flavor and texture slightly.

How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?

The chicken tenders are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear.

Can I freeze the chicken tenders after cooking?

Yes, cooked chicken tenders can be frozen. Make sure to let them cool down completely before sealing in an airtight container.

Conclusion

This bacon brown sugar chicken tenders recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With easy cooking techniques and a simple FAQ, you can feel confident preparing this dish. What variations or sides do you plan to try with these delicious chicken tenders?

More recipes suggestions and combination

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

A savory side dish that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the chicken.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries

These make a delicious and healthy side option to balance the dish.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Adding a nutritious green side that complements the flavors of the chicken tenders.

Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce

A tangy and sweet sauce that enhances the chicken tender experience.

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