Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders Recipe and Its Health Benefits

Introduction: Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders offer a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors, making them a tempting choice for both children and adults alike. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, game day snack, or even as a main course at casual gatherings. While indulgent, this recipe can be modified for a healthier version without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 10 strips of bacon, cut in half
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for added heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Wrap each tender in a half strip of bacon and secure with a toothpick if needed.
3. Coat with brown sugar: Dredge each bacon-wrapped chicken tender in brown sugar, pressing gently to adhere the sugar to the bacon.
4. Arrange on baking sheet: Place the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
5. Bake: Cook in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
6. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Health Benefits:

• Chicken: A lean source of protein that is essential for muscle growth and repair. It also provides important vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins and selenium.
• Paprika: Adds not only flavor but also antioxidants, vitamin A, and capsaicin, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Garlic: Known for its health benefits, including its ability to boost the immune system and reduce blood pressure.
• Bacon: While bacon adds flavor, choosing a leaner cut or a reduced-sodium variety can help make this dish healthier.

Conclusion: Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a crowd-pleaser with their irresistible combination of flavors. While this dish may be more on the indulgent side, using lean cuts of bacon and controlling portion sizes can help fit it into a balanced diet. Serve these chicken tenders at your next gathering or family meal for a treat that’s sure to delight. Enjoy the delicious flavors while reaping the nutritional benefits of the ingredients!