Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Are you looking for a recipe that combines the irresistible flavors of sweet and savory while being quick and easy to prepare?
Imagine the tantalizing aroma of Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders wafting through your kitchen, drawing everyone to the table. In this blog post, we will explore an enticing recipe that tantalizes your taste buds while being a breeze to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll learn how to make this delectable dish that promises to be a hit for family dinners, game days, or any occasion. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed culinary adventure!
Ingredients List
To create your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, you will need:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 10 bacon strips
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Suggestions for Substitutions
- Chicken Tenders: If you don’t have tenders, chicken breasts cut into strips work perfectly.
- Bacon: Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option, providing a slightly different yet delightful flavor.
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably, with dark giving a richer flavor.
- Paprika: Try smoked paprika for an added depth of flavor or a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
These ingredient swaps keep the essence of the dish intact while permitting flexibility based on your pantry.
Timing
Preparing your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders doesn’t take long at all. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
This is nearly 30% faster than average chicken recipes that often require marinating or longer cooking times.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken tenders get that perfect crispy exterior while remaining juicy inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
Wrap each chicken tender with a strip of bacon, making sure the bacon overlaps slightly. This helps secure the tender and enhances the flavor profile as it cooks.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, and garlic powder. Generously coat each bacon-wrapped chicken tender with this mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well.
Step 4: Bake the Tenders
Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are spaced out enough for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C)).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or a side salad, and enjoy the sweet and savory goodness!
Nutritional Information
For those mindful of their dietary choices, here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on the recipe making 4 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 270
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugars: 8g
This information is based on standard ingredients. Adjustments might alter calorie counts slightly.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Looking for ways to make your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders more health-conscious? Consider these alternatives:
- Use Skinless Chicken: While retaining moisture, removing the skin can significantly reduce the fat content.
- Air Fry: Cooking in an air fryer reduces the need for excessive oils, making for a healthier meal.
- Reduce Sugar: Use just 1/4 cup of brown sugar or substitute with a low-calorie sweetener.
These adjustments help maintain much of the original flavor while catering to various dietary needs!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider serving your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders with some of the following ideas:
- Dipping Sauces: Honey mustard, ranch, or sriracha mayo can enhance the experience.
- Side Dishes: Pair it with roasted veggies, a fresh garden salad, or even sweet potato fries for a balanced meal.
- Taco Wrap: Shred the chicken tenders and use them as a taco filling with your favorite toppings for a fun twist!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While preparing your Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, here are a few common pitfalls and how to sidestep them:
- Under-seasoning: Make sure you fully coat the chicken tenders with the sugar and spice mixture.
- Using too high a temperature: Higher temperatures can burn the bacon before the chicken is fully cooked. Stick to 400°F (200°C) for well-cooked, juicy tenders.
- Not allowing rest time: Cutting into the chicken tenders immediately can lead to dry meat, as juices will escape. A 5-minute rest period is essential.
Learning from others ensures your cooking experience is not just successful but also enjoyable!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have any Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders leftover, proper storage is key to maintaining taste and freshness:
- In the fridge: Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For extended storage, freeze the leftovers in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can last for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Prepping ingredients in advance can also save time on busy weeknights!
Conclusion
In summary, your journey to creating mouthwatering Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders is just a few steps away. The combination of sweet and savory, along with the crunchy taste of bacon, is irresistible and perfect for any occasion.
Call to Action
Ready to whip up this delicious dish? Try the recipe today, and let us know how it turned out in the comments! Also, don’t forget to check out our other recipes for more inspirational cooking.
FAQs
What can I serve with Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
You can pair them with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or even steamed broccoli for a healthier meal.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can wrap the chicken tenders in bacon and coat them with the brown sugar mixture ahead of time. Simply store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
How do I know when the chicken is properly cooked?
The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
While bacon is a key component, you can try using vegetable strips or eggplant slices coated in a similar mixture for a plant-based version.
Feel free to explore the wonderful world of cooking and discover new favorites right here on our blog! Happy cooking!
