Easy Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken

These sweet savory chicken tenders have saved countless rushed weeknights in my house delivering major comfort with minimal effort and just a few pantry staples. Rich bacon baked onto juicy chicken with crackly brown sugar is always a crowd-pleaser and this hands-off oven method makes it nearly impossible to mess up even if you have never rolled a tender before.

The brown sugar caramelizes into a sticky coating my family cannot resist. I first brought these to a game day potluck and they were gone before halftime so now I double the recipe each time.

Ingredients

• Chicken tenders: the perfect size for maximum coating and quick cooking look for plump moist tenders without any dryness
• Bacon bits: cooked and crumbled for rich smoky saltiness I use thick-cut bacon and cook it just until crisp for best results
• Brown sugar: gives a caramelized sweetness and helps bacon stick to the chicken I prefer dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor
• Garlic powder: for an easy hit of savory without mincing fresh opt for a fine even powder not granulated
• Black pepper: balances sweetness with gentle heat grind your own for the best aroma

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to a true 400 degrees Fahrenheit with the rack in the center This heat level ensures browning without drying out the chicken

Mix and Coat the Chicken:

Add the raw tenders bacon bits brown sugar garlic powder and pepper into your largest mixing bowl Toss with your hands so every piece gets completely coated and the sugar starts to cling to the meat

Prepare the Baking Sheet:

Line a sturdy sheet pan with parchment paper to catch drips and prevent sticking even if your pan is nonstick Lay each tender flat spaced at least an inch apart so air can circulate and bacon crisps up

Bake Until Crispy:

Slide the tray into the oven and set your timer for 20 minutes Check at this point and add 5 more minutes for thicker pieces or super crispy edges The sugar will look bubbling and bacon will be deep golden

Test for Doneness:

Remove a tender and insert a meat thermometer in the thickest part It should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit or juices will run clear with no pink inside Trust this step for maximum juiciness

Rest Briefly Then Serve:

Let tenders rest on the pan three to five minutes after baking This cooldown keeps the coating set and the chicken extra juicy so resist cutting too soon

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Bacon is my weakness and I will always sneak extra crispy bits when no one is watching. Making this for my nephew was extra fun because he said it made chicken taste like candy and even asked for seconds.

Storage Tips

Store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best texture reheat in a toaster oven or cast iron skillet instead of the microwave which can make the coating soggy. Leftovers also freeze beautifully if wrapped individually and stored in freezer bags for up to two months.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try turkey bacon for a slightly lighter option or swap the brown sugar for coconut sugar if you prefer less processed sweetness. For a spicy kick add a pinch of cayenne with the pepper.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve these chicken tenders hot as a fun appetizer for gatherings or alongside mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. I love slicing the leftovers to use in wraps or chopped over a crisp salad with blue cheese dressing.

Cultural Context

This sweet and savory combo is a Southern classic using brown sugar and bacon as a nod to old fashioned candied bacon recipes. Baking makes it accessible for weeknight cooks and adds a modern convenience twist.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, chicken breasts can be sliced into strips and used. Adjust baking time to ensure even cooking.

→ How do I get crispy bacon on the chicken?

Spread the coated chicken in a single layer with space between each piece. Bake at a high temperature to crisp up the bacon bits.

→ Can I substitute turkey bacon?

Turkey bacon works as a substitute, though texture and flavor may differ slightly from traditional bacon.

→ Is it possible to prepare ahead of time?

You can coat the chicken in the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest piece reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe and juicy chicken.