Looking for the ultimate game day snack or party appetizer? These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders hit all the right notes—sweet, salty, savory, and crispy in every bite. Juicy chicken strips are wrapped in smoky bacon, coated in caramelized brown sugar, and baked to perfection. With just 5 simple ingredients and minimal prep, they’re guaranteed to steal the show!
Why You’ll Love These Chicken Tenders
- Quick and easy – Just 30 minutes and a handful of pantry staples.
- No breading or frying – Bacon adds all the crispy texture you need.
- Sweet & savory flavor combo – Perfectly balanced and totally addictive.
- Crowd-pleasing – Great for game day, parties, or easy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 strips thick-cut bacon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with foil or parchment for easier cleanup.
- Slice the chicken – Cut each chicken breast into 4 long, tender-sized strips (for a total of 8).
- Season & coat – In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken strips with brown sugar, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Wrap in bacon – Wrap each chicken tender tightly in a strip of bacon, spiraling it to cover the length of the chicken.
- Arrange & sprinkle – Place the wrapped tenders in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle any leftover brown sugar on top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces—try ranch, honey mustard, maple syrup, or hot honey!
Dipping Sauce Ideas
Pair these sticky-sweet tenders with:
- Cool ranch dressing
- Tangy honey mustard
- Sweet maple syrup
- Spicy BBQ or hot honey drizzle
Tips & Variations
- Spice it up – Add cayenne or chili powder to the brown sugar for a kick.
- Add umami – Splash in a little soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the seasoning mix.
- Make it a meal – Serve over rice, a fresh salad, or roasted veggies.
- Party-perfect – Prep ahead, refrigerate, and bake right before serving.
These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are crispy, sticky, and completely irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just need a fun finger food for the family, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. One bite and you’ll see why these tenders disappear fast!