Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavor of bacon with the sweet richness of brown sugar. This recipe is not just about taste; it’s about creating a memorable meal that will have your family asking for seconds. The crispy bacon wrapped around tender chicken pieces results in a dish that is both visually appealing and delicious. Let’s dive into how to make this fantastic meal!

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken

This easy bacon brown sugar chicken recipe is not only simple but incredibly satisfying. Here are six reasons why you’ll love it:

It’s a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Easy to customize with your favorite spices and ingredients.
Great for meal prep; it tastes just as good reheated.
Can be served in various ways, from oven-baked to grilled.
It makes a fantastic dish for gatherings or family dinners.

This recipe is a savory bacon chicken dish that fits perfectly into your meal rotation. The method involves baking, which keeps it healthy while still delivering that crispy bacon goodness.

Ingredients for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken

Gather these items:

1 lb chicken tenders
8 slices of bacon
½ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

How to Make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using.
Step 3: Cut each slice of bacon in half. Wrap each chicken tender with a piece of bacon, ensuring it’s completely covered.
Step 4: Place the brown sugar in a shallow dish. Roll each bacon-wrapped tender in the brown sugar until well coated.
Step 5: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
Step 6: Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray or drizzle with a little olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 8: If desired, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve an extra crispy bacon layer.
Step 9: Once cooked, remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

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Pro Tips for the Best Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken

Keep these in mind:

For extra flavor, try adding different spices to the seasoning mix.
Consider using maple bacon for a sweeter twist!
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Best Ways to Serve Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken

This dish can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas:

Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Pair with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious juices.
For a fun twist, serve as bacon and brown sugar chicken skewers for a party!

How to Store and Reheat Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken

To store your bacon brown sugar chicken, follow these steps:

Allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken?

The secret lies in the balance of sweet and savory. Using quality bacon and ensuring the chicken is well-seasoned will elevate this dish to new heights.

Can I make Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken tenders and wrap them in bacon ahead of time. Just refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your oven is preheated and do not overcrowd the baking sheet. Each tender should have space to cook evenly.

Variations of Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations to consider:

Try using brown sugar bacon chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Experiment with a grilled bacon brown sugar chicken version for summer cooking.
Make a bacon brown sugar chicken casserole for a hearty meal.

Each variation maintains the dish’s essence while offering a unique twist.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Tuscan Scallops Recipe or Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, you might enjoy our One Pan Sweet Tangy Sausage Rice.

For more information on the health benefits of chicken, you can visit Healthline.