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Spicy Sweet Bacon Chicken Tenders

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Spicy Sweet Bacon Chicken Tenders. Perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this recipe features chicken wrapped in thick-cut bacon, coated in a sweet and spicy glaze. Ideal for game nights or casual dinners, these tenders are sure to impress and become a family favorite. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, they elevate any meal into a memorable experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp chili powder (adjust for spice level)
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut chicken breasts into strips about 1-2 inches wide; season with salt and pepper.
  3. Wrap each chicken strip in a slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
  4. In a bowl, combine brown sugar, garlic powder, chili powder, soy sauce, and smoked paprika until sticky.
  5. Dip each bacon-wrapped tender into the glaze until fully coated; place on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bacon is crispy and chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: For added heat, mix in diced jalapeños or drizzle sriracha over the tenders before serving. Substitute honey for brown sugar for a different sweetness profile. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for optimal crispiness.