Pin it
These bacon brown sugar chicken tenders combine crispy, smoky bacon with juicy chicken and a caramelized brown sugar coating that creates an irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for everything from casual dinners to party appetizers, they're guaranteed to disappear quickly from any table.
When I first started making these, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create such an addictive dish. The way the brown sugar melts and caramelizes around the bacon creates an almost candy-like coating that's impossible to resist.
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips
- Chicken tenders: Choose uniform sizes for even cooking
- Bacon: Regular cut works better than thick-cut
- Brown sugar: Dark brown adds deeper caramel notes
- Paprika: Sweet or smoked both work beautifully
- Garlic powder: Fresh garlic would burn, powder is perfect here
- Black pepper: Freshly ground provides the best flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Pat tenders dry with paper towels
- Trim any visible tendons
- Cut larger pieces in half lengthwise
- Season lightly with salt
Pin it
Perfect the Wrap
- Stretch bacon slightly for better coverage
- Start at one end of the tender
- Wrap at an angle, slightly overlapping
- Secure ends with toothpicks if needed
Create the Coating
- Mix brown sugar and spices thoroughly
- Press mixture firmly onto bacon
- Ensure even coverage all around
- Pat gently to adhere
Master the Bake
- Place on rack over lined baking sheet
- Leave space between pieces
- Watch carefully during final minutes
- Check temperature for doneness
My favorite memory of these tenders is making them for a football watch party - they were gone before halftime, and everyone begged for the recipe.
Make-Ahead Tips
Prep and wrap the chicken ahead of time, then add the sugar coating just before baking.
Serving Suggestions
I love arranging these on a platter with different dipping sauces - honey mustard, ranch, and barbecue sauce create a perfect trio.
Pin it
After countless batches of these tenders, I've learned that they're more than just a recipe - they're a guaranteed way to make any gathering more special. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, they never fail to impress and satisfy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
- Yes! Wrap and season the chicken up to 24 hours ahead, then bake when ready to serve.
- → How do I know when they're done?
- Chicken should reach 165°F internally, and the bacon should be crispy and caramelized.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead?
- Yes, just cut them into tender-sized strips and adjust cooking time accordingly.
- → What can I serve with these?
- Try roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad to balance the sweetness.
- → Why wrap the bacon around the chicken?
- The bacon adds flavor and keeps the chicken moist while cooking. Plus it creates a perfect surface for the brown sugar coating.