Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders are a delicious twist on classic chicken tenders, adding the rich flavors of cheddar cheese and crispy bacon to create a mouthwatering dish. These chicken tenders are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, game day snack, or as an appetizer for any gathering. Easy to make and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults, this recipe combines the best of savory ingredients for a truly delightful experience.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken Tenders:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Coating: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and panko breadcrumbs. In another bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Place the beaten eggs in a separate bowl.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, and then press it into the cheddar-bacon-panko mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Bake the Chicken Tenders: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help them crisp up in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes
- Cheese Choice: You can use a mix of cheeses such as cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey texture.
- Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy for the best texture in the coating. You can use store-bought bacon bits in a pinch.
- Cooking Method: For an even crispier texture, you can cook the chicken tenders in an air fryer at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Add 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning or fresh chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for an added layer of flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
- Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips to use in place of chicken tenders.
- Can I prepare these ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just be sure to bake them within 24 hours for the best results.
- Can I freeze the chicken tenders?
- Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken tenders before baking. Lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- What dipping sauces go well with these tenders?
- Ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and spicy aioli are all great options for dipping these cheddar bacon chicken tenders.
Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders are a fantastic way to elevate your chicken tender game. With minimal prep time and ingredients that pack a punch of flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or any time you need a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you enjoy them on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauces, these chicken tenders are sure to become a household favorite. Happy cooking
