Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: An Introduction

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a sweet and savory fusion dish that combines the natural sweetness of brown sugar with the smoky, crispy goodness of bacon. This irresistible combination is wrapped around juicy chicken tenders, creating a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. The savory bacon balances the sweetness of the brown sugar, while the chicken remains tender and moist on the inside, making it the perfect crowd-pleasing recipe for parties, family dinners, or a quick snack.

The History of Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

The concept of combining bacon and sweet ingredients, like brown sugar, has gained popularity with the rise of savory-sweet recipes in modern American cuisine. Bacon-wrapped items have long been loved, from bacon-wrapped dates to bacon-wrapped shrimp, and the addition of brown sugar further elevates these dishes by adding a caramelized sweetness that pairs well with bacon’s salty and smoky notes.

Chicken tenders have always been a favorite among both kids and adults, given their tenderness and ease of preparation. The combination of these chicken tenders wrapped in bacon and coated in brown sugar is a relatively recent twist that brings both flavor and texture to the forefront. This dish is an excellent example of the ongoing trend of creating unexpected yet delicious combinations in the culinary world.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients needed to make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders:

1. Chicken Tenders
   • Boneless, skinless chicken tenders are typically used for their tender and juicy texture. These are the ideal cut for this dish because they cook quickly and absorb flavors well.
2. Bacon
   • Bacon strips bring the crispiness and savory flavor. Thick-cut bacon is often preferred for its balance between meat and fat, which results in a satisfying crunch when cooked.
3. Brown Sugar
   • Light or dark brown sugar is used to coat the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders, creating a sweet, caramelized exterior once cooked.
4. Seasonings and Marinade
   • Garlic powder and onion powder: These aromatic seasonings enhance the savory profile.
   • Black pepper and paprika: Add a hint of spice and smokiness.
   • Olive oil or butter: A little bit of fat to help the sugar caramelize and prevent burning.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8–10 pieces)
• 8 slices thick-cut bacon
• ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Season the Chicken:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
   • Rub the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken tenders to coat them.
3. Wrap the Chicken with Bacon:
   • Take each chicken tender and wrap it with a slice of bacon, securing the ends of the bacon underneath the chicken (you can use toothpicks to secure it, but be sure to remove them before serving).
   • Place the wrapped chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Coat with Brown Sugar:
   • Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top of each bacon-wrapped chicken tender. The sugar will help create a caramelized coating as it bakes.
5. Bake:
   • Drizzle the chicken tenders with olive oil (or melted butter) to help with browning and crisping.
   • Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve:
   • Once baked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, and enjoy the crispy bacon and sweet brown sugar coating!

Tips for the Perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders:

• Crispiness: To ensure the bacon crisps up perfectly, you can place the chicken tenders on a rack over the baking sheet, which allows air to circulate all around them. This helps the bacon cook evenly.
• Bacon Thickness: Use thick-cut bacon for more texture and flavor. Thin bacon may burn too quickly before the chicken is fully cooked.
• Sweetness Control: Adjust the amount of brown sugar depending on how sweet you want the dish. You can use less sugar for a more savory version.
• Temperature Check: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F to be fully cooked and safe to eat.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle with hot sauce before baking to give the dish a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
• Herbed Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken: Add fresh or dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley) to the seasoning mix for an added layer of flavor.
• Honey and Mustard: If you prefer a tangier sauce, glaze the chicken with a mixture of honey and mustard before baking for a honey-mustard flavor with the bacon and brown sugar.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are delicious but can be high in calories, fat, and sodium due to the bacon and sugar. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider:

1. Calories and Fat: Bacon is high in fat, which contributes to the calorie count. However, using a moderate amount of bacon and pairing it with lean chicken tenders helps balance the dish.
2. Protein: The chicken is an excellent source of lean protein.
3. Sodium: Bacon can be very high in sodium, so consider using low-sodium bacon if you’re concerned about salt intake.
4. Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness but also increases the carbohydrate and sugar content of the dish. For a lower-sugar version, reduce the amount of brown sugar or substitute it with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.

To make the dish healthier:

• Use turkey bacon or chicken bacon as a lower-fat alternative.
• Bake the chicken on a rack to allow excess fat from the bacon to drain off.
• Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad to balance out the richness of the dish.

FAQ

Q: Can I make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders ahead of time? A: Yes! You can prepare the chicken tenders by seasoning and wrapping them in bacon the night before. Store them in the fridge and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Can I make this dish without bacon? A: You can substitute the bacon with prosciutto or even a panko breading for a crispy, non-bacon version. The sweetness of the brown sugar will still complement the chicken well.

Q: Can I cook these chicken tenders on the stovetop? A: While baking is recommended for even cooking, you can cook them on the stovetop by pan-frying. However, the bacon may not crisp up as well, and the caramelization from the sugar might be less pronounced.

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders? A: Yes, but chicken breasts will take longer to cook. If using chicken breasts, be sure to slice them into smaller strips or medallions to mimic tenders and ensure they cook evenly.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain crispiness or use a microwave if you prefer a quicker method.

This Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders recipe is a delightful treat that combines the savory and sweet flavors in a way that’s sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a flavorful dinner, this dish will be a hit!