Description
Smoky, crispy bacon-wrapped chicken tenders coated in sweet, caramelized brown sugar—this dish is pure comfort food! Perfect as an appetizer, game-day snack, or main course, these chicken tenders are easy to make, irresistibly flavorful, and always a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 12 strips thick-cut bacon
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for extra caramelization)
Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken and Bacon
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top.
- If using chicken breasts, cut them into 1-inch wide strips to create tenders.
2. Season and Wrap the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne.
- Take each chicken tender and wrap it tightly with one strip of bacon, tucking the ends underneath.
- Roll the bacon-wrapped chicken in the brown sugar mixture, pressing gently so it adheres.
3. Bake to Perfection
- Arrange the chicken tenders on the wire rack seam-side down to prevent unraveling.
- Drizzle with maple syrup or honey for extra caramelization (optional).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve with honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For Extra Crispiness: Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make It Spicier: Add more cayenne or drizzle with hot honey.
- Storage:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in an oven at 375°F for 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American