If you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish that’s crispy, sweet, smoky, and savory all at once, these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the answer. Each juicy strip of chicken is wrapped in smoky bacon, rolled in a caramelized brown sugar coating, and baked to perfection. The result? A tender, flavor-packed bite that’s perfect for family dinners, game-day appetizers, or even as a quick weeknight indulgence.
This recipe is loved because it blends sweet and savory in a way that feels irresistible: the salty bacon perfectly balances the caramelized sugar, while the chicken stays moist inside. It’s a combination that never fails to impress both kids and adults.
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Ingredients (and Why They Matter)
1 ½ pounds chicken tenders – The star of the dish. Using tenders ensures even cooking and juicy results.
1 pound thick-cut bacon – Adds smoky, savory flavor while crisping around the chicken. Thick-cut bacon works best to hold everything together.
1 cup brown sugar – The sweet element that caramelizes during baking, creating a sticky, flavorful glaze.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Enhances the smoky bacon flavor while adding a mild kick.
½ teaspoon garlic powder – Brings depth and savory balance to the sweetness.
½ teaspoon black pepper – Complements the sugar and prevents the dish from becoming overly sweet.
Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper – Essential for keeping the chicken from sticking as the sugar caramelizes.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, and lightly spray with nonstick spray.
2. Prepare the seasoning mix: In a shallow bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well to distribute the flavors.
3. Wrap the chicken: Take each chicken tender and wrap it with a strip of bacon, slightly overlapping so it holds firmly.
4. Coat in sugar mixture: Roll the bacon-wrapped chicken in the brown sugar seasoning mix, pressing gently so it adheres.
5. Arrange on the baking sheet: Place the tenders seam-side down on the prepared sheet, leaving space between each one for even cooking.
6. Bake until caramelized: Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crisp and the sugar is bubbling into a glaze.
7. Optional finishing touch: For extra caramelization, broil on high for 1–2 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
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Why This Recipe is Loved
Perfect flavor balance – The smoky-sweet combo is universally irresistible.
Kid-friendly & party-ready – These tenders are as great for picky eaters as they are for entertaining.
Simple ingredients, big results – Nothing fancy required, yet the outcome tastes gourmet.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Use thick-cut bacon – Thin bacon can overcook and burn before the chicken is done.
Don’t overcrowd the pan – Space allows for proper crisping and even baking.
Flip halfway – This ensures the bacon crisps evenly and the sugar caramelizes on both sides.
Broil carefully – Adds a restaurant-quality finish, but watch closely to prevent burning.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair these sweet and smoky tenders with:
Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter rice for a comforting meal.
Crisp green beans or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness.
A dipping sauce like honey mustard, spicy ranch, or even sriracha mayo for an extra flavor kick.
These also make a perfect appetizer when served with toothpicks on a platter for parties, potlucks, or game-day spreads.
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Conclusion
These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders prove that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a dish that’s sweet, smoky, juicy, and utterly addictive. Whether you’re cooking for family, impressing guests, or just craving something indulgent, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.
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