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Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Delicious chicken tenders coated in a sweet and savory brown sugar-bacon mixture, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast, cut into tenders Feel free to use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
  • 8 slices Bacon, chopped Turkey bacon can be used for a healthier twist.
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar, packed Adjust this for a sweeter touch.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt For seasoning.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper To taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder For added flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Paprika For a hint of warmth.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Season the chicken tenders evenly with this mixture.
  3. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan.
  4. Combine the Sweetness: Stir the brown sugar into the reserved drippings until it’s melted and bubbly.
  5. Coat the Tenders: Toss the seasoned chicken tenders in the brown sugar-bacon mixture until well coated.
  6. Bake: Place the tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
  7. Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle the crispy bacon on top before serving.

Notes

Feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or swap honey for brown sugar for a different sweetness profile. These chicken tenders are also great with a mixed green salad or your favorite dipping sauce.