Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders – Easy Sweet & Savory Chicken Recipe

Golden brown sugar chicken tenders glazed with a sticky sweet sauce, served on a plate with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
Sweet, sticky, and packed with flavor—these brown sugar chicken tenders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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The Sweet-Savory Chicken Tender You Didn’t Know You Needed

There’s something magical about the moment sweet meets savory—especially when it involves crispy chicken. I still remember the first time I made these brown sugar chicken tenders for a casual game night. They vanished before halftime. The combination of sticky caramelized glaze, smoky spices, and juicy chicken is simply irresistible. These tenders are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them perfect for weeknight dinners, party platters, or meal prep. Whether you’re craving comfort food or need a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe delivers bold flavor and satisfying crunch with minimal effort.

What Are Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?

Brown sugar chicken tenders are a sweet-savory twist on classic breaded tenders. Instead of a traditional coating, they’re tossed in a brown sugar and spice blend that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The result? Crispy edges, sticky glaze, and bold flavor. You can elevate them further by wrapping each tender in bacon, adding a smoky crunch that pairs perfectly with the sweetness. Inspired by Southern comfort food and BBQ flavors, this dish is indulgent yet easy to make. Baking instead of frying keeps them lighter while still delivering that crave-worthy crisp.

Flavor Profile: Sweet, Smoky, and Bold

The magic starts with brown sugar, which melts into a sticky glaze that clings to each tender. Garlic powder adds savory depth, while paprika and chili powder bring warmth and complexity. Bacon, if used, introduces saltiness and crunch, rounding out the flavor profile. For an extra layer of smokiness, swap regular paprika for smoked paprika—it makes a noticeable difference. The result is a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and savory notes that dance on your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Quick and easy with minimal prep
  • Balanced sweet-savory flavor that appeals to all ages
  • Easily customizable for spice level and texture
  • Versatile: great for meal prep, appetizers, or a main course

Tools You’ll Need

  • Baking sheet or casserole dish
  • Mixing bowl for coating
  • Tongs or spatula for handling
  • Parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup
  • Optional: meat thermometer to check doneness

Ingredient Notes and Smart Substitutions

  • Chicken: use tenders, sliced breasts, or boneless thighs
  • Brown sugar: light for subtle sweetness, dark for richer molasses flavor
  • Bacon: optional, but adds texture and smoky depth
  • Spices: garlic powder, chili powder, black pepper for balance
  • Optional sweeteners: honey or maple syrup for added complexity
  • Tip: Add cayenne for heat or Dijon mustard for tangy contrast

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line your baking dish with parchment or foil.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar with spices.
  3. Toss chicken pieces in the mixture until evenly coated.
  4. Wrap each tender in bacon if desired, or place directly on the baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 20–30 minutes, until golden and caramelized.
  6. Halfway through, spoon glaze from the pan over the tenders for extra stickiness.
  7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
Golden brown sugar chicken tenders glazed with a sticky sweet sauce, served on a plate with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.

Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders – Easy Sweet & Savory Chicken Recipe

These Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the perfect balance of sweet and savory! Coated in a caramelized brown sugar glaze with a hint of garlic and spice, they’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. A quick and irresistible dinner or party snack that everyone will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main
Cuisine American, Southern-Inspired
Servings 4
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet or casserole dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Parchment paper or foil
  • Optional: Meat thermometer

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken tenders (or sliced breasts/thighs)
  • ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika (smoked optional)
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: 8–10 strips of bacon
  • Optional: chopped parsley or scallions for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheet with parchment or foil.
  • In a bowl, mix brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, and black pepper.
  • Toss chicken in the mixture until evenly coated.
  • Wrap each tender in bacon if using, or place directly on baking sheet.
  • Bake for 20–30 minutes until golden and caramelized.
  • Halfway through, spoon glaze from pan over tenders for extra stickiness.
  • Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish if desired.

Notes

  • For extra heat, add cayenne or a dash of sriracha.
  • Maple syrup can replace brown sugar for a seasonal twist.
  • Air fryer option: cook at 375°F for 15–18 minutes.
  • Avoid microwaving leftovers to preserve glaze texture.
  • Great sliced into wraps, salads, or served with dipping sauces like ranch or chipotle mayo.
Keyword bacon-wrapped chicken, baked chicken tenders, Brown sugar chicken, easy chicken recipe, sweet and smoky chicken