Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

Who can resist the combination of crispy, juicy chicken tenders coated with sharp cheddar cheese and crispy bacon? Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders are the perfect comfort food that brings together a crunchy exterior with tender, flavorful chicken inside.

This dish is ideal for family dinners, game-day snacks, or even as an indulgent party appetizer.

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Step-By-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

3. Mix the cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and panko breadcrumbs in a shallow bowl.

4. Combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in another bowl.

5. Coat each chicken tender with the cheddar-bacon breadcrumbs mixture after dredging them in the seasoned flour and dipping them in the beaten eggs.

6. Transfer the coated chicken tenders onto the baking sheet that has been prepared and lightly spray them with cooking spray.

7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are crispy and golden brown.

Tips for Perfect Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

How to Keep the Tenders Juicy

Use fresh chicken tenders, and avoid overcooking them to keep the inside juicy and tender.

Ensuring the Coating Stays Crispy

If baking, ensure the oven is preheated and use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy exterior.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. This ensures even cooking and prevents fogginess.

Side Dishes to Serve with Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

Classic Sides

French fries: A timeless pairing for chicken tenders.
Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch.

Creative Pairings for a Gourmet Touch

Garlic Parmesan fries: A gourmet twist on the classic fries.
Sweet potato wedges: For a sweet and savory contrast.

Variations of Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

Spicy Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

Add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture to give the tenders a spicy kick.

Gluten-Free and Low-Carb Options

Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for those avoiding gluten.
For low-carb, swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds.

Healthier Alternatives for Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

Baked vs. Fried: Which is Healthier?

Baking uses less oil and is generally healthier while still delivering crispy results.

Using Air Fryers for a Guilt-Free Meal

An air fryer can give you crispy tenders with minimal oil, making it the perfect choice for a healthier version.

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftover Tenders

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for a maximum of 3 days.

Reheating While Keeping the Crispiness Intact

To keep the tenders crispy, reheat them in the oven or air fryer instead of microwaving them.

How to Use Leftovers

Chicken Tender Wraps

Leftover tenders can be sliced and wrapped in tortillas with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.

Topping Salads with Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

Cut up the tenders and use them as a topping for Caesar or garden salads for added flavor and crunch.

Why Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders Are Perfect for Parties

Easy to Serve and Share

Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for sharing, and they pair well with a variety of dips, from ranch to barbecue sauce.

Customizable for Different Preferences

You can adjust the spice level, use different cheeses, or even offer dipping sauce bars for guests to create their own perfect tender.

FAQs

Can I make these tenders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and coat the chicken tenders ahead of time, then fry or bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Is it permissible to use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great lighter alternative, and it still offers that smoky flavor.

How do I make these tenders keto-friendly?

Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs, and make sure to use full-fat cheddar cheese.

Can I air fry the tenders instead of baking or frying in oil?

Yes, air frying is a great option for getting crispy tenders with minimal oil.

What sauces pair well with these chicken tenders?

Ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, and spicy aioli are all great options.

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