Back in the day, my kitchen experiments often led to interesting—though not always successful—results. But when I stumbled upon the idea of pairing the smoky richness of bacon with the sweet simplicity of brown sugar, it was like a culinary light bulb moment. Toss in some tender chicken, and you’ve got yourself a recipe that’s not just tasty but practically foolproof. What’s great is that this dish is perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying without spending hours prepping. Easy recipes with maximum flavor? That’s my kind of cooking.
These chicken tenders have a way of making everyone feel like they’re indulging in something special, yet they’re deceptively simple to put together—perfect for impressing guests without breaking a sweat. Plus, the aroma that fills the house as they bake is enough to bring even the most stubborn of teenagers out of their rooms! If you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again, not just for the taste but for the memories you create around the dinner table.
So go ahead, give these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders a try, and watch them become a regular request in your household too. It’s not just food; it’s an experience shared with the people you love. And after all, isn’t that what cooking is all about?
How to Make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
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Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 8 strips of bacon
Directions:
- Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C).
- Slice each chicken breast lengthwise into four long, thin tenders.
- Mix the brown sugar, kosher salt, and ground black pepper in a bowl until well combined.
- Coat each chicken strip thoroughly in the brown sugar mixture.
- Wrap each coated chicken strip with a slice of bacon, making sure to tuck the ends underneath to secure them.
- Place the bacon-wrapped strips in a baking dish, then sprinkle any remaining sugar mixture over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the chicken is cooked through. Be watchful to avoid burning the sugar.
- Serve the chicken tenders hot and enjoy!
Customizing Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: Alternative Ingredients
If you find yourself without bacon, prosciutto makes a fine substitute with its own unique flavor. For a healthier twist, consider turkey bacon. Want to switch up the sweetness? Honey or maple syrup can replace brown sugar, though adjust the amount to taste. Remember, these substitutions will tweak the taste but keep the essence intact.
Best Ways to Store Leftover Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’re planning to freeze them, wrap each piece individually in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to one month in the freezer. Reheat in the oven for best results to maintain the bacon’s crispiness.
Perfect Pairings for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
These tenders pair wonderfully with a light green salad or roasted vegetables, adding a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish. For an indulgent touch, serve with creamy mashed potatoes. A crisp, chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea complements the flavors beautifully, making it a hit for any meal.
Top Techniques for Cooking Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
To get that perfect crispy bacon, consider using a wire rack in your baking dish to lift the chicken off the bottom. This allows air to circulate all around the bacon, ensuring even cooking. Also, if you like a bit more spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness.
Seasonal Twists for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
In the fall, adding a dash of pumpkin spice to the sugar mixture can bring a warm, seasonal twist to your chicken tenders. During summer, try incorporating a zest of lemon or lime for a refreshing kick that pairs well with the smoky bacon. These tweaks can keep the dish exciting for any season.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful cut. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Check doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What should I do if my bacon is not crispy enough?
If you find your bacon isn’t as crispy as you’d like, try placing the tenders under the broiler for a minute or two at the end of baking. Keep a watchful eye to prevent burning. Alternatively, using thinner-cut bacon can help achieve a crispier finish.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
To lighten up the recipe, you can opt for turkey bacon or reduce the amount of brown sugar. Using chicken tenderloins, which are leaner than full breasts, can also cut down on calories. These changes will slightly alter the taste but can make the dish fit more health-conscious diets.
How can I make this dish spicy?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the brown sugar mix will spice things up. Adjust the amount to your taste preference. A drizzle of hot sauce before serving can also add an extra kick.
What can I do if I don’t have kosher salt?
If you’re out of kosher salt, you can use regular table salt, but reduce the amount slightly since table salt is finer and more compact. Sea salt is another good alternative that provides a similar texture and flavor profile.
Can these chicken tenders be made on the grill?
Yes, these tenders can be grilled for a smoky flavor. Wrap the chicken strips with bacon as instructed, then grill them over medium heat. Turn them frequently to ensure the bacon crisps up and the chicken cooks evenly. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Equipment
- oven
- mixing bowl
- baking dish
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 8 strips bacon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Slice each chicken breast into four long strips.
- In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken strips well with this mixture.
- Wrap each coated chicken strip with a bacon slice, ensuring the ends are tucked underneath for stability.
- Arrange the wrapped chicken strips in a baking dish, then sprinkle any remaining brown sugar mixture on top.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the bacon is crisp and the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Keep an eye on the dish to avoid burning the sugar.
- Serve the hot chicken tenders immediately and relish the delightful flavors!
