Explore our Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, where juicy chicken meets crispy bacon and a sweet glaze, making every bite a delectable treat. Perfect for any gathering or a simple family dinner, this recipe combines simplicity with gourmet flavors for a truly memorable meal.
Unleash the ultimate flavor fusion with Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, where every bite offers a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory sensations. This recipe transforms simple chicken tenders into a delectable treat, wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in a caramelized brown sugar glaze, making it irresistible for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Let's explore the key ingredients that make this dish a crowd-pleaser.
INGREDIENTS
- Chicken Breasts: Two boneless, skinless breasts, cut into long, thin strips, serve as the tender and juicy base of this dish.
- Brown Sugar: A half cup of brown sugar ensures a delightful caramelized coating that enhances the natural sweetness of the chicken.
- Kosher Salt: Half a teaspoon to balance the sweetness and bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Black Pepper: A dash (1/8 teaspoon) adds a subtle spice that complements the sweet and savory profile of the tenders.
- Bacon: Eight strips wrap around the chicken, infusing it with smoky flavors and providing a satisfying crunch.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it's hot enough to cook the chicken tenders to perfection and crisp the bacon beautifully.
- Step 2: Prepare Chicken
- Slice each chicken breast into 4 long, thin strips, creating the ideal shape for wrapping and ensuring even cooking.
- Step 3: Season
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken strips in this sweet and savory mixture to coat them thoroughly, which will caramelize during baking for a rich flavor.
- Step 4: Wrap
- Wrap each coated chicken strip with a strip of bacon, securing the bacon so it envelops the chicken completely. This step is crucial as it infuses the tenders with smoky flavors while keeping them moist.
- Step 5: Add Extra Flavor
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders in a baking dish. Sprinkle any leftover brown sugar mixture over the top for an extra flavor boost.
- Step 6: Bake
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on your oven, so look for the bacon to become crispy and the chicken to be thoroughly cooked through.
Serving and Storage Tips
For the best dining experience, serve the Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders fresh out of the oven while they are still sizzling. They are perfect as a standalone dish or can be paired with sides such as roasted vegetables, a light salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. To store leftovers, allow the chicken tenders to cool completely and then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm throughout.
Helpful Notes
Consider adjusting the amount of brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness. For a spicier kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added to the seasoning mix. Additionally, experimenting with different types of bacon, such as applewood-smoked or hickory, can introduce new flavors to this dish. Chef Alex Johnson recommends, "Always check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached a safe 165°F (74°C) before serving to guarantee both safety and juiciness."
For a festive twist, try serving these tenders with a dip like blue cheese dressing or a homemade honey mustard sauce to enhance their flavors even further. Chef Emily White suggests, "Presentation matters—arrange the tenders on a platter garnished with fresh herbs to make the dish visually appealing and even more enticing."