There’s something about Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders that makes them the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re craving something crispy and savory for dinner or need a quick snack to satisfy your hunger, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver. These chicken tenders are coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust, loaded with rich cheddar cheese and crispy bacon, and baked to golden perfection. If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and indulgent meal that your whole family will love, this is the one for you!
In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of making Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders, from the ingredients to the final bake, as well as provide helpful tips to ensure your tenders turn out perfect every time. Ready to dig into this mouthwatering recipe? Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders
This recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, making it both budget-friendly and easy to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces) – Tender and juicy, the chicken is the star of this dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For that gooey, melty cheese on top that everyone loves.
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled – The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch and rich flavor.
- 1/2 cup flour – For the first step in the breading process, adding a light coating to the chicken.
- 2 large eggs – These act as a binding agent, helping the breadcrumbs stick.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs – Choose your favorite variety (panko or regular) for that crispy exterior.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds an extra layer of flavor to the breadcrumbs.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – For a subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – To balance the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A touch of heat to enhance the savory notes.
- Cooking spray or oil (for greasing) – To ensure that the chicken doesn’t stick to the baking sheet.
Directions to Make Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders
This recipe is incredibly simple to follow, and the end result is a batch of crispy, cheesy chicken tenders that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help crisp up the breadcrumbs and melt the cheese perfectly. While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil. This ensures that the chicken doesn’t stick during baking and gets that beautiful golden color.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
Now it’s time to set up your breading station. You’ll need three shallow bowls:
- In the first bowl, add flour. This is the first layer that will stick to the chicken.
- In the second bowl, beat eggs. These will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken tenders.
- In the third bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will create the crispy, flavorful coating that makes these tenders irresistible.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Take each chicken tender and start with dipping it into the flour bowl, making sure to coat it evenly. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press the chicken tender into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders, placing them on the prepared baking sheet as you go.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bacon
Now for the best part – the toppings! Once the chicken tenders are coated, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top of each tender. Then, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the cheese. The combination of the melting cheese and crispy bacon will create a heavenly, savory flavor that everyone will love.
Step 5: Bake the Tenders
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the coating is golden brown and crispy. You’ll want to keep an eye on them toward the end to ensure the bacon doesn’t burn.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the tenders are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve these cheesy, bacon-laden tenders with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard. Pair them with a side of crispy fries or a light green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders
- Crispier Coating: If you prefer an even crunchier coating, you can use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko tends to create a lighter, crispier crust.
- Bacon Tips: Make sure to crisp up the bacon beforehand to ensure it stays crunchy during baking. If you add it raw, it will become soggy and not give you that crispy bacon texture that everyone loves.
- Chicken Substitutes: While chicken tenders are ideal for this recipe, you can also use chicken breasts cut into strips. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly since chicken breasts are thicker.
- Make It Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture if you like a bit of heat.
Nutrition Information for Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders
These tenders are a delicious comfort food, but they’re also a decent source of protein. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken tenders by coating them and refrigerating them for up to 24 hours before baking. This helps the breading stick even better and can save you time on busy days.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes.
Can I freeze these chicken tenders?
Yes, these tenders freeze wonderfully! After breading and baking them, let them cool completely before storing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.
Can I make these Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders in the air fryer?
Absolutely! To make them in the air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 375°F and cook the tenders for about 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The result will be perfectly crispy, cheese-filled tenders.
Conclusion: A Recipe You’ll Make Over and Over Again
Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food, packed with cheesy goodness, crispy bacon, and tender chicken. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these tenders will surely become a family favorite. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and a delicious end result, it’s hard to resist making them time and time again.
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share your creation on social media! And for more delicious ideas, check out these other recipes you’re sure to enjoy:
- Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken: An Explosion of Flavor
- Honey Butter Sweet Potato Cornbread: A Southern Delight
- Garlic Butter Cheese-Filled Biscuits: Irresistibly Delicious
Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food! Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with savory cheddar and crispy bacon. Baked to golden perfection, they make an irresistible dish for both kids and adults. Perfect for a quick dinner or party snack, these tenders are sure to be a hit with everyone!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8–10 pieces)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or oil (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, place the flour. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Chicken Tenders: Dip each chicken tender first into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to ensure it sticks.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Top each tender with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Serve the Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy this cheesy, savory delight!
Notes
- For an even crispier texture, broil the tenders for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- You can swap out cheddar for other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different twist.
- Serve with a side of ranch dressing or honey mustard for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Comfort Food, Kid-Friendly
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (of 8-10 tenders)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Cheddar bacon chicken tenders, crispy chicken tenders, baked chicken recipe, comfort food, easy chicken dinner, kid-friendly meals, homemade chicken tenders