1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with cooking spray.
2. **Prepare Chicken Tenders:** Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and pepper.
3. **Prepare Coating Mixture:** In a shallow dish or bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to combine.
4. **Coat Chicken Tenders:** Dip each chicken tender into the brown sugar mixture, coating it evenly on all sides. Press the mixture onto the chicken tenders to ensure it adheres well. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
5. **Add Beef Bacon:** Sprinkle the crumbled beef bacon evenly over the top of the coated chicken tenders, pressing it gently into the brown sugar mixture.
6. **Bake:** Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken tenders for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is caramelized and crispy.
7. **Serve:** Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve them hot as a delicious appetizer or main dish, paired with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes.
8. **Enjoy:** Enjoy the irresistible combination of sweet brown sugar, smoky beef bacon, and juicy chicken in these delicious Beef Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders!
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