Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: Sweet and Savory Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top for even cooking.
Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture:

In a shallow dish, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.
Wrap the Chicken:

Wrap each chicken tender tightly with a slice of bacon. Secure the ends with a toothpick if needed.
Coat in Brown Sugar:

Roll the bacon-wrapped chicken tenders in the brown sugar mixture, pressing gently to adhere the sugar evenly.
Bake the Tenders:

Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared wire rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through for even caramelization, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Optional Broiling:

For extra crispiness, broil the tenders for 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Serving and Storage Tips