Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: A Delicious Recipe to Savor

If you’re looking for a savory-sweet dish that’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings, look no further than Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. This recipe is a perfect blend of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, sweet glaze that will have everyone coming back for more. It’s a fantastic choice for dinner, meal prepping, or a special treat for a family gathering. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is simple enough to make yet impressively delicious.

In this article, we’ll take you step by step through the process of making Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. We’ll go over all the ingredients, the detailed preparation and cooking instructions, tips to make your meal even better, and more! By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to whip up this amazing dish at home and enjoy a delightful meal.

Ingredients

To make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenders: These boneless, skinless pieces of chicken are perfect for this recipe, as they cook quickly and stay tender.
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped: Bacon adds a crispy, salty crunch that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar glaze.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Brown sugar is used to create a sweet, caramelized glaze for the chicken.
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: This adds a touch of tanginess to balance the sweetness of the brown sugar.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Olive oil is used for cooking the chicken, providing a smooth texture and rich flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken, bacon, and glaze, ensuring every element is full of flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories per Serving: 350 kcal (depending on serving size)

Directions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders:

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

1. Start by chopping your bacon into small pieces. This allows the bacon to cook faster and ensures it gets nice and crispy.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook it until crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the skillet and drain it on paper towels to absorb excess grease. Set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

1. Using the same skillet (with some of the bacon drippings still in the pan), add the brown sugar. Stir it around to coat the bottom of the pan and allow it to start melting.
2. After the sugar has melted, add the Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the ingredients together to combine them, creating a smooth glaze.
3. Let the glaze simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes a sticky syrup-like consistency.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. While the glaze is simmering, season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper. Be sure to season both sides for even flavor.
2. In the same skillet or a different pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken tenders. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through.
4. You can check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

1. Once the chicken is cooked, brush each chicken tender with the brown sugar glaze, ensuring it’s well-coated.
2. After glazing, sprinkle the crispy bacon on top of each chicken tender for an added crunch and flavor boost.
3. Serve the chicken tenders immediately while they’re hot and crispy.

Tips for the Perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

• Crisp the bacon well: For the best texture and flavor, make sure the bacon is nice and crispy. This will add a satisfying crunch when served on top of the chicken.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar. Similarly, if you like a sweeter glaze, feel free to add a bit more sugar.
• Season the chicken well: Don’t skip the seasoning step. A little salt and pepper go a long way in enhancing the flavor of the chicken and complementing the sweetness of the glaze.
• Use a meat thermometer: To avoid overcooking or undercooking the chicken, a thermometer ensures that your chicken is perfectly cooked.

Benefits of Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

High in Protein

Chicken tenders are a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle building and overall health. Protein also helps with satiety, making this meal satisfying and filling.

Rich in Flavor

The combination of savory bacon, sweet brown sugar, and tangy Dijon mustard offers a complex and balanced flavor profile. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a savory-sweet combination in their meals.

Quick and Easy

With only a 25-minute total cook time, Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are perfect for busy weekdays when you want a homemade meal but don’t have a lot of time.

Customizable

Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your tastes. Add more or less sugar, experiment with different types of mustard, or swap out the chicken tenders for chicken breasts or thighs.

FAQs about Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Yes! Boneless chicken breasts work well in this recipe, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Chicken breasts are thicker than tenders, so you’ll need to cook them a bit longer, typically around 6-7 minutes per side, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best to serve the dish immediately for the crispiest bacon and tender chicken, you can make the glaze and cook the bacon ahead of time. Store them separately, and then assemble and cook the chicken when you’re ready to serve.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check the ingredients of your Dijon mustard and bacon to ensure they don’t contain any gluten-based additives.

Can I substitute turkey bacon?

Yes, you can use turkey bacon if you prefer. Keep in mind that turkey bacon has a different texture and flavor compared to regular bacon, so it will change the overall dish slightly.

How can I serve these chicken tenders?

These chicken tenders are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad to round out the meal.

Conclusion

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a perfect combination of savory and sweet flavors, making them a great option for a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a special occasion, or simply a craving for something tasty, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a sticky glaze makes every bite irresistible.

By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can easily prepare this flavorful dish in under 30 minutes. Customize it to your taste, experiment with different ingredients, and enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. So, gather your ingredients, heat up the skillet, and get ready to enjoy some Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders!