Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Looking for a delicious and easy recipe to add to your dinner rotation? These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are sure to be a hit with your family!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 6 slices of bacon
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F.
• Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
• In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture over the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders.
• Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with foil and sprayed with cooking spray.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 8g

Helpful tips:

• For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or paprika to the brown sugar mixture.
• If you prefer extra crispy bacon, you can broil the chicken tenders for a few minutes at the end of cooking.
• Serve the chicken tenders with a side of mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
• You can also try this recipe with pork tenderloin or turkey tenderloin for a different variation.
• Make sure to use thick-cut bacon for the best results.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
• Experiment with different types of seasoning blends, such as BBQ rub or Italian herbs, for a unique twist on this recipe.
• If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can use turkey bacon as a lower-fat alternative.
• Don’t forget to remove the toothpicks before serving!

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the bacon slightly before wrapping it around the chicken tenders to ensure it gets crispy during baking.
• Marinating the chicken tenders in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and garlic before wrapping them in bacon can add extra flavor.
• For a smoky flavor, try using smoked paprika or a sprinkle of liquid smoke in the brown sugar mixture.
• If you want to cut down on the sweetness, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or substitute it with a sugar-free alternative.
• For a gluten-free version, make sure the bacon you use is gluten-free and double-check all seasonings for hidden gluten ingredients.
• Adding a touch of Dijon mustard to the brown sugar mixture can help balance out the sweetness and add a tangy kick.
• For a touch of heat, you can add a splash of hot sauce or sprinkle of chili flakes to the brown sugar mixture.
• To make this recipe keto-friendly, you can use a brown sugar substitute and opt for thick-cut, sugar-free bacon.
• Experiment with different types of chicken cuts, such as thighs or breasts, for varied textures and flavors.
• For a festive twist, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the brown sugar mixture during the holidays.