For spicier tenders, add a pinch of cayenne to the brown sugar mix. These can be made ahead and refrigerated until ready to bake. Serve with honey mustard, ranch, or a spicy dipping sauce. Using thinner-cut turkey bacon helps it crisp up better in the oven.
Turkey Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
Turkey bacon brown sugar chicken tenders are a sweet and savory twist on a comfort food favorite. Juicy chicken tenders are wrapped in smoky turkey bacon, rolled in brown sugar, and baked until caramelized and golden. The result is a sticky, flavorful bite with the perfect balance of salty and sweet, ideal for appetizers, dinners, or party platters.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound chicken tenders
10 to 12 slices turkey bacon
⅓ cup light brown sugar
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Nonstick spray or parchment paper for baking
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat with nonstick spray.
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
Wrap each chicken tender with a slice of turkey bacon, overlapping slightly. If the bacon is too long, trim the excess or tuck it underneath.
Roll the wrapped tenders in the brown sugar mixture, pressing gently so the sugar sticks.
Place the tenders seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the sugar is caramelized. If needed, broil for the last 1 to 2 minutes for extra crispiness.
Let rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the glaze to set.
Notes
Find it online: https://richspoon.com/turkey-bacon-brown-sugar-chicken-tenders/