If you’re craving something crispy, cheesy, and utterly delicious, Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers are exactly what you need! These golden, crispy chicken tenders are coated in a savory, cheesy crust made from sharp cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and a subtle hint of smoked paprika, delivering the perfect balance of smokiness and richness in every bite.
Whether you’re looking to prepare a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a delicious family dinner, or a fun snack to enjoy with friends, these chicken fingers are sure to satisfy your cravings. Plus, the recipe is simple, easy to follow, and doesn’t require hours of prep work.
In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of creating these Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers. We’ll dive into the ingredients, preparation, cooking tips, and ideas for serving these mouthwatering chicken tenders. So, get your aprons ready, and let’s get cooking!
Why Choose Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers?
Chicken fingers are a classic favorite for both kids and adults, but what sets this recipe apart is the irresistible combination of smoky bacon and cheddar cheese. The bacon adds a savory, umami-packed flavor, while the cheddar cheese gives the chicken fingers an indulgent richness. And let’s not forget the hint of smoked paprika that infuses a subtle smoky kick into the crust.
But why is this recipe so special? Aside from the mouthwatering flavors, these Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers are baked, not fried, which means they’re healthier without sacrificing any flavor or crunch. This dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and health-conscious cooking.
The combination of tender chicken, crispy coating, and flavorful seasoning makes this dish a winner in any kitchen. It’s a perfect option for meal prep, parties, or a quick and easy dinner during the week.
Key Ingredients for the Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers
To make these Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Each ingredient plays an important role in achieving that irresistible flavor and crispy texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
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1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces): Chicken tenders are tender, juicy, and cook quickly. They’re perfect for this recipe as they soak up all the flavors of the seasoning and breading.
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are key to achieving that extra-crispy coating. They’re light and airy, making them ideal for this recipe. Unlike regular breadcrumbs, panko creates a crispier texture without being too heavy.
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1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese gives the chicken fingers their rich, creamy flavor and adds to the crispiness of the coating. The cheese melts slightly in the oven, creating delicious cheesy pockets within the crispy crust.
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1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled: Bacon adds a salty, savory flavor to the chicken fingers. The bacon bits contribute a smoky essence that complements the cheddar cheese and enhances the overall flavor profile.
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This spice is the secret ingredient that gives the chicken fingers a smoky depth without overwhelming the other flavors. It pairs wonderfully with the bacon and cheddar, bringing out a mild heat and smokiness.
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder brings a savory, aromatic quality to the crust. It’s an essential component that elevates the flavor of the chicken.
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Like garlic powder, onion powder enhances the savory aspect of the dish without being too sharp or overpowering.
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1/4 teaspoon salt: Salt brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients, making every bite burst with flavor.
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper provides a touch of spice and balance to the seasonings.
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2 large eggs, beaten: The eggs act as a binder to hold the breading to the chicken tenders, creating that crispy, cheesy crust.
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Cooking spray or oil for greasing: A light coating of oil or cooking spray ensures the chicken fingers bake to a crisp, golden perfection.
With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. The crispy coating combined with tender chicken is sure to make this recipe a hit at your dinner table!
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step directions to make these delicious Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be able to create a crispy, cheesy masterpiece that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the ideal temperature for baking the chicken fingers, ensuring they cook through while achieving a golden, crispy coating.
Once the oven is preheated, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil. This step helps prevent the chicken tenders from sticking to the pan and ensures they bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should have a nice balance of crunchy breadcrumbs, smoky bacon bits, and melted cheese, which will form the perfect crust on the chicken tenders.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Tenders
Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, coating it evenly. The egg acts as a glue for the breadcrumb mixture, helping it stick to the chicken. Once the chicken is coated in egg, dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crust sticks.
Make sure the chicken tenders are fully covered in the breadcrumb mixture for that crispy, cheesy texture. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect crust.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Once the chicken tenders are coated, place them on the prepared baking sheet. Space them out to allow air circulation, which will help them cook evenly and become crispy.
For an extra crispy finish, lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray or drizzle them with a bit of oil. This will give them that irresistible golden-brown finish.
Bake the chicken tenders for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy. You can check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer to ensure it’s reached 165°F (74°C). The crispy coating should be perfectly golden, and the chicken should be tender and juicy inside.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the chicken fingers are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve the Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Whether you prefer ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard, these chicken fingers will pair perfectly with any dip.
Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness with every bite!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers
While the recipe is straightforward, there are a few tips and tricks to ensure your chicken fingers turn out perfectly every time:
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Use Fresh Chicken Tenders: Fresh chicken tenders are preferable to frozen ones. Frozen tenders tend to release excess moisture during cooking, which can affect the crispiness of the coating.
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Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat or even experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary.
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Make the Chicken Extra Crispy: For an extra crispy crust, try double-dipping the chicken. After the first layer of breadcrumbs, dip the chicken tenders back into the egg and then dredge them in breadcrumbs again for a thicker, crunchier crust.
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Air Fryer Option: If you prefer a quicker cooking method, you can make these chicken fingers in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the chicken tenders for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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Meal Prep: These chicken fingers can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes until crispy again. They also freeze well for up to 3 months!
Health Benefits of Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers
While this dish is indulgent, there are a few health benefits you can enjoy:
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Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall health.
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Bacon: While bacon is often considered an indulgence, it contains B vitamins like niacin and B12, which support metabolism and overall health.
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Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle function.
By baking the chicken instead of frying it, you reduce the overall calorie count and fat content, making this dish a healthier option without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Serving Suggestions for Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers
These chicken fingers are incredibly versatile and can be served in several ways to suit different occasions:
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As a Snack: Serve these chicken fingers as a delicious snack or appetizer during a party or movie night. Pair with various dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or even a spicy buffalo sauce for extra flavor.
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In a Salad: Chop up the chicken tenders and toss them in a salad for a protein-packed meal. The crispy chicken pairs well with leafy greens, avocado, and a tangy vinaigrette.
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As a Main Course: Serve the chicken fingers with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a hearty grain like quinoa or rice for a satisfying dinner.
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Wrap It Up: Wrap the chicken fingers in a tortilla with some lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite sauce for a quick and tasty chicken wrap.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers
These Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and smoky flavors that everyone will love! Whether you’re making them as a snack, appetizer, or a main course, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The rich cheddar cheese, savory bacon, and aromatic smoked paprika come together to create a truly indulgent experience, while baking instead of frying keeps it healthier without compromising on taste.
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:
- Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bombs
- Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken Strips
- Chicken Parmesan Stuffed with Cream Cheese
Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Crispy Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and smoky goodness. Coated in a delicious blend of cheddar cheese, bacon, and spices, they offer a crispy, mouth-watering crunch with every bite. Whether you serve them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, they’re sure to steal the spotlight!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8–10 pieces)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 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 or lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil.
- Prepare the Crust: In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Prepare the Chicken Tenders: Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, coating it evenly, then dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crust to the chicken.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for extra crispness. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy.
- Serve: Serve your smoky bacon cheddar crusted chicken fingers hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!
Notes
- For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
- These chicken fingers can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat in the oven for the best crispiness.
- For an even crispier crust, you can use a wire rack on the baking sheet, allowing air to circulate around the chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Snack, Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (2-3 chicken tenders)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Smoky Bacon Cheddar Crusted Chicken Fingers, Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders, Crispy Chicken Strips, Cheesy Chicken Fingers, Bacon Chicken Fingers, Baked Chicken Tenders, Crispy Chicken Snack, Smoky Chicken Recipe