If you're looking for a mouthwatering, easy-to-make appetizer or main dish, these Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a must-try! Juicy chicken tenders wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in a sweet, caramelized brown sugar glaze—what's not to love? With the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors, these tenders are sure to be a hit at family dinners, game nights, or holiday gatherings.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know, from choosing the best ingredients to expert tips for perfectly crispy bacon-wrapped chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Only 4 Ingredients – Simple, everyday pantry staples.
✔ Perfect Texture – Juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a caramelized coating.
✔ Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – The perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory.
✔ Versatile – Serve as an appetizer, snack, or main dish.
✔ Oven or Air Fryer Friendly – Multiple ways to cook for convenience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 8-10 slices of bacon (thin-cut works best)
- ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark for deeper caramelization)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky depth)
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a savory kick.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – For a subtle spicy heat.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey – Enhances the sweet caramelization.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top (this helps the bacon crisp up evenly).
Step 2: Wrap the Chicken in Bacon
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel.
- Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon, slightly overlapping as you go.
- Secure the ends with a toothpick if needed.
Step 3: Coat with Brown Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and smoked paprika (plus any additional seasonings you’re using). Roll each bacon-wrapped chicken tender in the mixture, coating all sides.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Optional Broil for Extra Crispiness
For an extra-crispy finish, broil the tenders for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the tenders cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup or honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
Air Fryer Instructions
Want to make these tenders even faster? Use an air fryer!
1️⃣ Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Prepare the tenders as directed, wrapping in bacon and coating with brown sugar.
3️⃣ Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4️⃣ Cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked.
Pro Tips for the Best Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
✔ Use Thin-Cut Bacon – It cooks faster and crisps up better than thick-cut.
✔ Don’t Overlap the Bacon – This helps it crisp up evenly.
✔ Use a Wire Rack – Prevents soggy bacon and allows even cooking.
✔ Broil at the End – For that perfectly crispy and caramelized finish.
✔ Let Them Rest – The caramelized sugar will set, making them easier to handle.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet and savory bacon-wrapped chicken tenders pair perfectly with a variety of sides and dips!
🔥 Dipping Sauces: Ranch, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo.
🥗 Side Dishes: Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad.
🍞 Bread Pairings: Serve with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread.
Healthier Swaps & Alternatives
✅ Use Turkey Bacon – A lower-fat alternative.
✅ Try Coconut Sugar – A refined sugar-free substitute.
✅ Go Gluten-Free – This recipe is naturally gluten-free!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! Wrap the chicken in bacon and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, coat in brown sugar and bake.
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in the air fryer for 5 minutes.
Can I Freeze Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders?
Yes! Freeze uncooked tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
Final Thoughts: A Simple Yet Addictive Recipe!
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the perfect mix of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. Whether you're making them for a party, a family dinner, or a quick snack, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!
Try this quick and easy recipe today and watch them disappear in minutes! 😋🔥
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