Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Name: Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders That Will Wow Your Taste Buds!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 tbsp olive oil

Posted on August 20, 2025

DINNER

Difficulty

Prep time

Cooking time

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Servings

Introduction to Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that pleases everyone. That’s why I absolutely adore these Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders! They’re not just quick to make; they’re a delightful blend of sweet and savory that will have your family asking for seconds. Imagine the joy of serving a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare after a long day. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that feels special without the fuss. Trust me, these tenders will wow your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

These Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. They come together in just 35 minutes, making them perfect for those evenings when time is tight. The sweet and savory flavor combination is a crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters. Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with various sides, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy. You’ll love how easy it is to impress your family with this delicious dish!

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these mouthwatering Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken tenders: The star of the show! Tender and juicy, they cook quickly and are perfect for this recipe.
Brown sugar: This adds a delightful sweetness and caramelizes beautifully when cooked, giving the chicken a lovely glaze.
Soy sauce: A savory component that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar, adding depth to the flavor.
Garlic powder: A must-have for that aromatic kick, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Onion powder: This adds a subtle sweetness and depth, complementing the garlic perfectly.
Black pepper: Just a pinch adds a bit of heat and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken, it helps achieve that golden-brown crust.

For those looking to customize, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce for a few hours to deepen the flavor. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar based on your taste preferences. If you’re out of any ingredient, feel free to substitute with what you have on hand. The exact measurements for these ingredients are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing!

How to Make Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps for making these delicious Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders. Each step is simple, and I promise you’ll feel like a kitchen pro by the end!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown color. If you skip this, your chicken might end up unevenly cooked, and nobody wants that!

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until everything is well blended. This sauce is the heart of the dish, so take a moment to taste it. If you want a little more sweetness, feel free to add a touch more brown sugar. It’s all about finding that perfect balance!

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Now, it’s time to coat the chicken tenders. Take each tender and dip it into the sauce, making sure it’s fully covered. I like to use my hands for this part; it’s messy but effective! Ensure each piece is evenly coated to maximize flavor. The more sauce, the better the taste!

Step 4: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken tenders. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step is essential because browning the chicken adds a depth of flavor that makes these tenders irresistible. Plus, that sizzling sound? Pure music to my ears!

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Transfer the sautéed chicken to a baking dish and pour any remaining sauce over the top. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. To check for doneness, cut into a tender; the juices should run clear, and the meat should be no longer pink. This ensures you have perfectly cooked chicken every time!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once your chicken is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite juicy and tender. Serve your Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders hot, perhaps with a side of steamed veggies or fluffy rice. Don’t forget to drizzle some of that delicious sauce over the top for an extra flavor boost. Enjoy every bite!

Tips for Success

Marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours for deeper flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
For extra crunch, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Keep an eye on the chicken while sautéing to prevent burning.
Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Equipment Needed

Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any frying pan will do.
Baking dish: Use a glass or metal dish; both are great for baking.
Mixing bowl: Any bowl will suffice for mixing the sauce.
Meat thermometer: Optional, but helpful for checking doneness.

Variations

Spicy Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders: Substitute half of the brown sugar with honey for a different sweet flavor profile.
Herb-Infused Tenders: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or rosemary into the sauce for an aromatic twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free while maintaining that savory flavor.
Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken tenders for tofu or tempeh, and follow the same cooking instructions for a plant-based meal.

Serving Suggestions

Steamed Vegetables: Brighten your plate with a mix of colorful steamed veggies like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers.
Fluffy Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of jasmine or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Refreshing Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the chicken.
Cold Beverages: Pair with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing contrast.

FAQs about Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts cut into strips. Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.

How can I make these Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders healthier?

To lighten them up, consider using less brown sugar or substituting it with a natural sweetener like honey. You can also bake them without sautéing for a lower-fat option.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes! You can mix the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This makes meal prep a breeze!

What sides pair well with Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders?

These tenders go wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. They’re versatile enough to complement many sides!

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Definitely! Just make sure to store them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture!

Final Thoughts

Cooking these Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating moments of joy around the dinner table. The sweet and savory flavors dance together, making each bite a delightful experience. I love how this recipe brings my family together, even on the busiest nights. It’s a reminder that with just a few simple ingredients, I can create something truly special. So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, I hope you find as much joy in making these tenders as I do. Happy cooking!