Name: Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Your Family Will Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Tenders (Substitute with chicken breasts for a healthier option.); 1 cup Bacon Bits (Use homemade crumbled bacon for freshness or store-bought for convenience.); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic substitute.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can be used for a bolder taste.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust to personal preference.)

“Crispy, sweet, and smoky” was the mouth-watering phrase I overheard from my kitchen, and it perfectly sums up the magic of these Easy Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. With just five simple ingredients and a quick prep time, you can transform an ordinary weeknight dinner into a crowd-pleasing feast that feels special. This dish not only brings the nostalgic comfort of home cooking but also offers a customizable twist—switch up the bacon or spice levels to suit your taste! Ideal for busy families or anyone who craves a hearty meal without the fuss, these tenders are sure to become a go-to recipe in your rotation. What will you serve alongside your crispy creations?

Why Choose Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?

Homemade goodness: Skip the fast food and embrace the rich flavors of these tenders made right at home.

Simple ingredients: With just five pantry staples, this recipe is as easy as it gets!

Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, even picky eaters won’t resist these delicious bites.

Customizable: Feel free to add spice or swap in turkey bacon for a healthier twist.

Quick to prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can have a mouthwatering meal ready to enjoy.

Pair these chicken tenders with a side of Cream Cheese Chicken taquitos, and you’ve got an unbeatable dinner experience!

Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Ingredients

• Get ready to impress your family with these irresistible tenders!

For the Chicken:

Chicken Tenders – The star ingredient that provides lean protein; substitute with chicken breasts for a healthier option, adjusting cooking time as needed.

For the Coating:

Bacon Bits – Adds a savory crunch and depth of flavor; use homemade crumbled bacon for freshness or store-bought bits for convenience.
Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness that caramelizes beautifully for a sticky coating; coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic substitute.
Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor with a mild kick; fresh minced garlic can be used for a bolder taste.
Black Pepper – Balances the sweetness and adds a hint of spice; adjust the amount to personal preference, using white pepper for a milder flavor.

Enjoy crafting these delicious Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders that your family will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders cook evenly and attain that delightful crispy texture. While the oven heats up, gather your baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken tenders with the bacon bits, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a spatula, ensuring each piece is well coated with the savory-sweet mixture. This step is crucial for achieving that irresistible flavor combination that makes these chicken tenders so special.

Step 3: Arrange Tenders
Carefully transfer the coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet, placing them in a single layer. Make sure to leave some space between tenders to allow the heat to circulate, which will help them crisp up nicely. This thoughtful arrangement is key to achieving a perfect bake.

Step 4: Bake
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them as they cook, looking for a golden-brown exterior with crispy bacon bits. This visual cue indicates that your Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are nearing perfection.

Step 5: Check Doneness
After the baking time, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken tenders reaches 165°F (75°C). This step ensures that your tenders are safely cooked through and will be juicy on the inside, complementing the crunchy coating perfectly.

Step 6: Rest
Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chicken tenders rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping every bite moist and flavorful. Enjoy the anticipation as you prepare to serve your delicious Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders!

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prep the chicken mixture (chicken tenders, bacon bits, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper) up to 24 hours ahead. Simply combine all the ingredients in a bowl, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake—this not only enhances the flavor but ensures it’s just as delicious when cooked. On the night you plan to serve, arrange the tenders on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. Enjoy the scrumptious aroma and crispy texture with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

A feast is best enjoyed when every bite is accompanied by delightful sides that enhance the meal’s joy and comfort.

Crispy Roasted Vegetables: The perfect way to add color and nutrition to your plate, these veggies bring earthy flavors that balance the sweetness of the tenders.
Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy flavors of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet chicken, keeping your palette excited.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and dreamy, these mashed potatoes soak up all those delectable juices, ensuring every bite is an indulgent experience.
Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: This sweet and tangy sauce is a crowd favorite, perfectly complementing the chicken’s flavor and adding a zesty zing with each dip.
Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: A classic pairing! The crispy exterior and fluffy interior of fries harmonize beautifully with the tenders, making for a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing drinks elevate your meal—lemonade brings a sweet-sour twist, while iced tea offers a soothing balance, rounding out your homemade feast.

Explore these ideas to create a delightful dining experience that your family will love, and let the compliments flow as they savor each note of flavor!

Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delicious chicken tenders to make them truly your own!

Turkey Bacon: Swap out regular bacon for turkey bacon for a lighter, healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Your family may just love this alternative even more!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for an exciting burst of heat. This can elevate the flavor profile and make your tenders truly unforgettable.
Fresh Garlic: Replace garlic powder with fresh minced garlic for a bolder taste. This substitution brings a fresh and aromatic quality that enhances every bite!
Air-Fried Tenders: For an even crispier finish, try air frying your chicken tenders instead of baking them. Simply adjust the temperature and time for deliciously lighter tenders with that same great crunch!
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of traditional ones if you’re catering to gluten-sensitive eaters. This makes it accessible for everyone at the table.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme or oregano in the coating for added flavor depth. Fresh herbs can also brighten up the dish, creating a fragrant and vibrant meal!
Honey Glaze: Drizzle a bit of honey over the tenders just before serving for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors. This subtle addition can take your chicken tenders to the next level.

Pair these tasty tenders with a side of Chinese Orange Chicken for a delightful evening, or enjoy them beside your favorite roasted vegetables!

Storage Tips for Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze the chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat your Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for crispiness, or use an air fryer for quick reheating.

Expert Tips for Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh chicken tenders for the best flavor and texture. Frozen tenders may result in a watery coating, so avoid them for this recipe.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Place chicken in a single layer with space between pieces on the baking sheet. This prevents steaming and helps achieve a crispy texture on your Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders.
Accurate Baking Time: Keep an eye on your tenders while baking and use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures juicy chicken and safety.
Mix It Up: Feel free to customize the flavors! Add your favorite spices or herbs to the mixture, such as smoked paprika or fresh parsley, to enhance your Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the tenders to rest for at least 5 minutes after baking. This step locks in moisture and ensures that every bite is as juicy as possible!

Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs

How should I choose the chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh chicken tenders are your best bet for flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before coating to prevent excess moisture, which can make it harder for the bacon bits to stick and can lead to a soggy coating.

What is the best way to store leftover chicken tenders?
I recommend placing leftovers in an airtight container and storing them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain optimal freshness. If there are a lot of leftovers, freezing is a great option too!

Can I freeze Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?
Of course! To freeze, lay the cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer the tenders to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will last up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy the convenience of homemade goodness without cooking from scratch every time!

What should I do if the bacon isn’t crispy after baking?
Very! If you find your bacon bits are not crisp enough, try a few adjustments. First, check the even spacing between tenders on the baking sheet; overcrowding can cause steaming. Also, you might consider increasing the baking temperature slightly or utilizing the broil setting for a couple of minutes at the end, keeping a close watch to avoid burning. These tweaks can help achieve that desired crunchy texture!

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Yes, always keep in mind that while chicken is generally safe for dogs, bacon can be high in salt and fat, which isn’t ideal for them. Additionally, if anyone in your family has allergies, ensure that you use gluten-free bacon bits and check the labels on your ingredients to avoid any allergens. It’s always better to be safe and customize your cooking to fit everyone’s needs!