Description
Turkey Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a savory-sweet twist on a family favorite. Tender chicken strips are wrapped in smoky turkey bacon and coated with a caramelized brown sugar glaze. Baked to perfection, these chicken tenders are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor. Ideal for weeknight dinners, party appetizers, or game-day snacks, this recipe is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
10 to 12 slices of turkey bacon
⅔ cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper
Instructions
1 Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2 In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to create a sweet and savory seasoning blend.
3 Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of turkey bacon. If your bacon is short, you may need to use half a slice per tender, depending on size. Make sure the ends are tucked underneath or secured with a toothpick if necessary.
4 Roll the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders in the brown sugar mixture, pressing lightly so the seasoning sticks well on all sides.
5 Place the prepared tenders on the baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for even cooking. If there’s extra brown sugar mixture, sprinkle a bit more over the top of each piece for added glaze.
6 Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the chicken is fully cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If needed, broil for an additional 1 to 2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness, watching carefully to avoid burning the sugar.
7 Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. The brown sugar glaze will set slightly as it cools.
Notes
Make sure the turkey bacon is tightly wrapped around the chicken to ensure even cooking and good texture. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar rub. This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed sweet potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.