The Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe combines savory flavors with a touch of sweetness. This dish features chicken strips wrapped in bacon, seasoned, and coated with a blend of brown sugar. As the chicken bakes, the sugar caramelizes, enhancing the taste and texture. The preparation is straightforward, making it an attractive option for gatherings. To explore the history behind this recipe and discover how to create it step-by-step, continue on.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the main reasons to love this Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders recipe is its perfect blend of flavors and textures.
The savory chicken pairs beautifully with the crispy bacon, while the sweetness of brown sugar enhances the overall taste. This dish offers a delightful crunch on the outside, complemented by tender meat inside.
Additionally, the recipe is simple and quick, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. It can be served as an appetizer or a main dish, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
This versatility makes it a fantastic choice for any gathering.
History
The history of Chicken Tenders can be traced back to the mid-20th century, when they emerged as a popular dish in American cuisine.
Originally, these bite-sized pieces of chicken were created from the tenderloin, a lean cut prized for its tenderness. As fast-food restaurants began offering these items, their popularity soared, making them a staple in family meals and gatherings.
Over time, various recipes and methods of preparation evolved, incorporating different flavors and ingredients.
Today, chicken tenders are enjoyed in diverse forms, including those wrapped in bacon and coated with sweet seasonings, reflecting the dish’s adaptability and ongoing appeal.
Recipe

Looking for a deliciously sweet and savory dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders! This recipe combines the juicy tenderness of chicken with the crispy, smoky flavor of bacon and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar. Perfect for appetizers or as a main dish, these chicken tenders are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this mouthwatering dish in no time. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a family meal, Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are easy to customize with your favorite dipping sauces and sides. Get ready to indulge in a delightful culinary experience!
Ingredients:
- Chicken tenders
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Thin-cut bacon
- Brown sugar
- Optional chili powder
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Toothpicks (if needed)
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, season the chicken tenders with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to enhance their flavor.
- Take each seasoned chicken tender and wrap it with a strip of thin-cut bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks if necessary to prevent the bacon from unraveling during cooking.
- In a bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, and optional chili powder. Coat each bacon-wrapped chicken tender generously in this sweet and spicy mixture.
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, ensuring there is space between each tender to allow for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Once cooked, allow the tenders to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your choice of dipping sauces for a delightful treat.
Extra Tips:
To achieve the best results with your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, opt for thin-cut bacon, as it crisps up better than thick-cut.
Using a wire rack helps prevent the bacon from sitting in grease, promoting a crispy texture. Remember to leave space between the tenders on the rack to avoid steaming them.
If you want an extra layer of crispiness, consider broiling the tenders for the last few minutes of cooking. Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your desired level of sweetness, and enjoy this delicious dish!
Final Thoughts
Enjoying a flavorful dish like Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders can elevate any meal, making it memorable for everyone involved.
This recipe combines savory and sweet elements, creating an appealing balance that is sure to please. The use of bacon adds a crispy texture, while the brown sugar provides a hint of sweetness.
Ideal for gatherings or family dinners, these tenders can be served as appetizers or main courses. With easy preparation and cooking steps, they are accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
FAQ
What should one know before making Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders? First, it is essential to season the chicken properly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Thin-cut bacon is recommended for better crispiness. Using a wire rack while baking helps prevent sogginess. Additionally, leaving space between the tenders ensures even cooking.
For added flavor, one can adjust the amount of brown sugar used. After baking, allow the tenders to rest before serving.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven for optimal texture, preserving the desired crispiness of the bacon.

Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- Chicken tenders
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Thin-cut bacon
- Brown sugar
- Optional chili powder
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Toothpicks if needed
Instructions
- Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, season the chicken tenders with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to enhance their flavor.
- Take each seasoned chicken tender and wrap it with a strip of thin-cut bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks if necessary to prevent the bacon from unraveling during cooking.
- In a bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, and optional chili powder. Coat each bacon-wrapped chicken tender generously in this sweet and spicy mixture.
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, ensuring there is space between each tender to allow for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Once cooked, allow the tenders to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your choice of dipping sauces for a delightful treat.
- Extra Tips:
- To achieve the best results with your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, opt for thin-cut bacon, as it crisps up better than thick-cut.
- Using a wire rack helps prevent the bacon from sitting in grease, promoting a crispy texture. Remember to leave space between the tenders on the rack to avoid steaming them.
- If you want an extra layer of crispiness, consider broiling the tenders for the last few minutes of cooking. Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your desired level of sweetness, and enjoy this delicious dish!