There’s something magical about the combination of sweet brown sugar and salty, crispy bacon—especially when it wraps around juicy chicken tenders. These Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the kind of dish that feels like it came straight from Grandma’s kitchen but with just the right touch of modern ease.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday appetizers, or game day snacks, this recipe is warm, comforting, and made to share.
Why You’ll Love These Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders
- Sweet & savory perfection – Brown sugar caramelizes around crispy bacon
- Easy to prepare – Just a few ingredients and simple steps
- Versatile – Great for dinner, parties, or holiday spreads
- Oven, air fryer, or crockpot options – Choose your favorite method
- Family favorite – Loved by kids and adults alike
Easy Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders (Oven Method)
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly coat with cooking spray.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
- Wrap each tender with a strip of bacon, slightly overlapping. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Roll in brown sugar or sprinkle generously on top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until bacon is crispy and chicken is cooked through.
- Optional broil for the last 2–3 minutes to caramelize the sugar and crisp the bacon further.
Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F
- Cook wrapped tenders for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through
- Brush with a little maple syrup before the last 2 minutes for extra glaze
Crockpot Version (Slow Cooker)
- Wrap tenders as above and place in slow cooker
- Sprinkle brown sugar over the top
- Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2.5–3 hours
- Finish under the broiler if desired for crispier bacon
Flavor Twists & Variations
- Add cayenne pepper for a sweet-heat combo
- Use maple bacon for deeper sweetness
- Add a mustard glaze for a tangy touch
- Serve with ranch or BBQ dipping sauce
Serving Ideas for Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders
- Over mashed potatoes for a cozy dinner
- As a holiday appetizer with toothpicks
- Alongside a fresh salad for balance
- Paired with cornbread or roasted veggies
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make bacon brown sugar chicken tenders in the air fryer?
Yes! Just follow the air fryer directions above—perfectly crispy and faster than baking.
Are these good for meal prep?
Yes, they reheat well in the oven or air fryer. Store in the fridge up to 3 days.
Can I use turkey bacon?
You can, but it won’t crisp as much as pork bacon. Still tasty and lighter!
What’s the difference between this and the Pioneer Woman recipe?
Ours is a bit simpler and adaptable for oven, air fryer, or crockpot methods—still packed with sweet-savory flavor.
Can I freeze these?
Yes! Freeze before or after cooking. Reheat from frozen at 375°F until warmed through.
Community Corner 🧡🥓
These brown sugar bacon chicken tenders bring back memories of potlucks, cozy Sundays, and holiday kitchens filled with laughter. Have you made a version with your own twist? Share your story or tag us in your photo—we love seeing your comfort food classics come to life.
