Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: Smoky & Sweet Recipe

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In North Carolina, where BBQ is king and Southern hospitality is the norm, there’s always a place for dishes that perfectly balance smoky, savory, and sweet. One recipe that captures the essence of North Carolina flavors is Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. Whether you're preparing a quick family meal or need an appetizer that’s sure to wow your guests, this dish offers all the boldness and charm of Carolina cooking.

Bacon has long been a staple in Southern cuisine, adding a rich, savory component to just about anything. In this recipe, crispy bacon wraps around tender chicken, infusing every bite with a smoky essence. But what really sets this dish apart is the brown sugar coating, which caramelizes as it bakes, creating an irresistible glaze with just the right amount of sweetness.

With the addition of smoked paprika and a touch of garlic powder, these tenders deliver a punch of flavor that will have you coming back for more. The recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for game days, family gatherings, or any time you want a taste of North Carolina’s bold yet balanced flavor traditions.

Recipe: North Carolina Style Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 8-10 slices bacon
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)

Directions:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top to ensure even crisping.
2. Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you want a bit of a kick). Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Wrap the Chicken Tenders: Take each chicken tender and wrap it tightly with a slice of bacon. If your tenders are on the larger side, feel free to use an extra half slice to make sure the chicken is completely wrapped.
4. Coat with Brown Sugar Mixture: Gently press each bacon-wrapped tender into the brown sugar mix, making sure it’s well-coated on all sides. The brown sugar will form a sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
5. Bake: Arrange the coated tenders on the prepared rack and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the bacon is crispy and the brown sugar has formed a sticky, caramelized crust.
6. Rest and Serve: Allow the tenders to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the caramelized sugar firm up slightly, making the tenders easier to handle and even more delicious.

The beauty of this North Carolina-inspired recipe is in its simplicity and bold flavor profile. The bacon brings that familiar smokiness, while the brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the heat from the cayenne and paprika. These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are sure to be a hit, whether you’re serving them at a backyard cookout or a cozy family dinner.

Next time you’re in the mood for something quick, flavorful, and deeply satisfying, turn to this recipe. With every bite, you’ll get a taste of North Carolina’s rich food culture—where smoky, sweet, and savory come together in perfect harmony.

The Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders recipe is an absolute hit, blending the perfect mix of sweet and savory flavors that are sure to impress. These tenders are simple to make yet packed with bold flavors thanks to the brown sugar that caramelizes beautifully with crispy bacon, adding a delightful crunch to every bite. For an extra layer of flavor, smoked paprika and garlic powder are added, along with optional cayenne pepper for a slight kick of heat.

The recipe starts by wrapping each chicken tender with bacon, then coating them in a mixture of brown sugar and spices before baking until crispy. The key to the deliciousness lies in the caramelization of the brown sugar, which forms a sweet, sticky glaze on the bacon.

For those who love to dip, try pairing these tenders with honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or even ranch dressing to complement the smoky sweetness of the chicken. Whether served as a party appetizer, snack, or even a main dish alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad, these tenders will surely be a crowd favorite​(Dinner, then Dessert)​(My Home Made Recipe)​(Flavor Nectar).

For more detailed step-by-step instructions, check out the recipe on (Dinner, then Dessert)tp​(Flavor Nectar)rt.co​(Six Sisters' Stuff)ken-tenders/), Flavor Nectar, or Six Sisters’ Stuff.

Enjoy making this irresistible dish!