When it comes to delicious comfort food, Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders are at the top of the list. These chicken tenders are loaded with flavor, featuring the crispy crunch of breadcrumbs, the smoky goodness of bacon, and the rich, melty cheddar cheese. This recipe is a fun twist on classic chicken tenders and brings a flavor-packed meal to the table, perfect for family dinners, parties, or even game-day snacks.
Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it’s also easy to make with minimal prep time. The combination of cheddar cheese and bacon adds a unique twist to the regular chicken tenders we’re used to. You’ll love the golden-brown crust that forms as they bake in the oven, creating a tender, juicy bite with each piece.
Why We Love This Recipe
This Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Flavorful and Fun: Cheddar cheese and bacon make an unbeatable pair that adds a savory, rich flavor to the chicken tenders.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can get these tenders in the oven quickly, making this recipe ideal for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: Both kids and adults alike will love these chicken tenders, and they’re perfect for picky eaters who might usually shy away from chicken.
- Versatile: Serve these tenders as a main course with sides like mashed potatoes or as an appetizer with dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard.
- Baked, Not Fried: These chicken tenders are baked instead of fried, so you can enjoy the crispy, crunchy goodness with less guilt.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for this delicious recipe:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for baking
How to Make This Recipe
Follow these steps to create the perfect Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil.
- Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls for breading the tenders. In the first bowl, add the flour along with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken tender and coat it first in the flour, making sure it’s fully covered. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken tender into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated with the cheddar-bacon mixture.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place each breaded chicken tender onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the tenders aren’t touching so they cook evenly.
- Bake: Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray or brush with a bit of oil to ensure a crispy, golden crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Success Tips
To get the best results, here are a few tips for making perfect Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders:
- Ensure Even Coating: Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the chicken tenders to make sure it sticks well, especially the cheese and bacon bits. This will help create an even, flavorful coating.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Place the tenders with some space in between to allow for even baking and crisping.
- Watch the Bake Time: Chicken tenders can dry out if overbaked, so keep an eye on them after 20 minutes and check for doneness. They should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite spices, such as smoked paprika or Italian seasoning, to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage
If you have leftovers (though they’re so delicious you might not!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Refrigerator: Place any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the tenders by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, bake the tenders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tenders soggy.
Notes
- Breadcrumb Choice: For extra crunch, you can use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, you can also try mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for different flavors.
- Cooking Spray Alternative: If you don’t have cooking spray, lightly brush each tender with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
Nutrition
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (serves 4):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 550mg
Keep in mind that the nutrition may vary slightly depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.
FAQs
1. Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
2. Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Absolutely. You can slice chicken breasts into strips if you don’t have tenders on hand.
3. How do I make these tenders extra crispy?
For extra crispiness, try using panko breadcrumbs and make sure to spray or brush the tenders lightly with oil before baking.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tenders up to the breading step, then refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. This is a great way to save time if you’re preparing for a gathering.
Conclusion
Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on the classic chicken tender, and they’re sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. With their crispy coating, cheesy goodness, and smoky bacon flavor, these tenders offer a satisfying crunch and a melt-in-your-mouth experience with each bite. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a fun night in, these chicken tenders are versatile, easy to prepare, and can be customized to your taste.
So why not give them a try? You’ll quickly understand why this recipe is so loved. Pair them with a side of sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or simply enjoy them on their own with a dipping sauce.