Easy Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: An Incredible 5-Ingredient Recipe

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious, then you’ve come to the right place! I absolutely adore this Easy Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: An Incredible 5-Ingredient Recipe. It’s a recipe that brings comfort and joy to my kitchen and has quickly become a favorite in our family. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon bits, and the sweet touch of brown sugar makes it a dish that everyone loves.

This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying with minimal fuss. It’s also great for family gatherings or casual get-togethers when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me; once you try these chicken tenders, they’ll become a regular on your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Simple: With just five ingredients, this recipe is a breeze to whip up.
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves the sweet and savory flavors—kids and adults alike!
• Quick Cooking Time: In about 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, and pairs well with various sides.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance for an easy reheat on busy days!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that you probably already have on hand. They come together beautifully to create something truly special.

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup bacon bits (cooked and crumbled)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or your personal tastes.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Add some heat: Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Change up the sweetness: Experiment with honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
• Mix in veggies: Add diced bell peppers or onions to the mix for added flavor and nutrition.

How to Make Easy Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: An Incredible 5-Ingredient Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken tenders will cook evenly and become delightfully crispy.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine your chicken tenders with bacon bits, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well until every piece of chicken is evenly coated with those yummy ingredients. This step is crucial because it allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 3: Arrange Chicken

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place your seasoned chicken tenders on the sheet in a single layer. Make sure there’s space between each piece; this helps them cook evenly and prevents steaming.

Step 4: Bake

Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they reach perfection—golden-brown and crispy!

Step 5: Check Doneness

Using a meat thermometer, check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (75°C). This step ensures your chicken is safe to eat while being juicy and tender.

Step 6: Let Rest Before Serving

Once out of the oven, let those scrumptious tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. This little waiting period allows all those wonderful juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

And there you have it! A delightful plate of Easy Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders that’s ready to be devoured. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: An Incredible 5-Ingredient Recipe

Creating these chicken tenders is not just simple, but it can also be a fun experience! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken tenders will provide better texture and flavor compared to frozen ones. They cook more evenly and absorb the flavors of the bacon and brown sugar beautifully.
• Even Coating: Make sure to coat each chicken tender thoroughly with the bacon bits and seasoning mixture. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and that the sweet and savory notes shine through.
• Avoid Crowding the Pan: When placing the chicken on the baking sheet, give them enough space. Crowding can lead to steaming rather than baking, which affects crispiness. Aim for a single layer with a little room between each piece.
• Let Them Rest: After baking, allow your chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes before serving. This step helps retain their juiciness and allows the flavors to settle in for an even tastier experience.
• Experiment with Seasonings: While this recipe is fantastic as is, don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite spices or herbs! A dash of smoked paprika or some dried rosemary can add an exciting twist to these tenders.

How to Serve Easy Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: An Incredible 5-Ingredient Recipe

Serving these chicken tenders can be just as enjoyable as making them! With a few simple touches, you can create a delightful presentation that impresses family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side provides a zesty contrast that complements the sweetness of the tenders beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery mashed potatoes make for a comforting pairing that balances the sweet flavors of the chicken.
• Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable adds color to your plate while providing a healthy, crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the richness of bacon and brown sugar.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette creates a wholesome side that’s nutritious and delicious.

With these serving suggestions, your Easy Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy delicious, flavorful tenders all week long.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the chicken tenders are fully cooled.
• Wrap each tender individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to ensure they don’t dry out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I make Easy Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders without bacon bits?

Absolutely! You can use plant-based bacon bits or even omit them entirely if you’re looking for a lighter version. The brown sugar and garlic will still give you a delicious flavor!

How do I store leftovers of Easy Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Yes, you can! Just be sure to cut the chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenders for even cooking.

What sides pair well with these chicken tenders?

These chicken tenders go wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or some creamy mashed potatoes!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Easy Homemade Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders! They’re not only incredibly simple but also packed with flavor that will please everyone at your table. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, these tenders are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!