Description
Sweet and savory chicken tenders glazed with brown sugar and smoked bacon, perfect for fall dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8–10 pieces)
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free panko)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter for brushing
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, to serve
Instructions
- Prep the bacon and sugar glaze: In a small skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped smoked turkey bacon until just crisp. Drain on paper towels. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in half the cooked bacon.
- Coat the tenders: Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Dip each tender into the beaten eggs, then press into panko breadcrumbs, coating all sides. For extra flavor, mix a tablespoon of the brown sugar spice blend into the panko before coating.
- Bake or air-fry: Oven method: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place tenders on a greased baking sheet lined with parchment. Brush lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Bake 12–15 minutes, flip halfway, until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F. Air fryer method: Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Place tenders in a single layer and cook 8–10 minutes, turning once.
- Add the brown sugar bacon glaze: In the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining brown sugar mixture over the tenders and top with the remaining bacon pieces. If baking, return to oven just long enough for sugar to melt and slightly caramelize without burning.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for brightness.
Notes
Dry the chicken thoroughly before breading to help the coating adhere. Use panko for extra crispiness. Watch the sugar closely to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking or Air-frying
- Cuisine: American