Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

Have you ever stumbled upon a recipe that becomes an instant family favorite? Let me tell you about a delightful evening when I made these Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders. Picture this: a cozy family movie night, everyone gathered around in the living room, popcorn ready, and then… these little bites of heaven make their entrance. It was as if the tenders were vanishing into thin air, one after another! I barely had time to snap a photo before they were all gone. Trust me, they’re that good.

There’s something about the combination of crispy bacon, gooey cheddar, and tender chicken that makes these tenders irresistible. The first time I tried them, I thought they’d make a perfect snack for the kids, but let me tell you, the adults were equally smitten! It’s such a simple dish to whip up, yet it feels like a special treat every time. And the best part? They’re baked, not fried, which always makes me feel a tad less guilty when I reach for my third… or fourth piece.

These tenders are not only quick to prepare but they also bring everyone to the table, eagerly chatting and munching away. They’ve become a staple in our household whenever we have friends over or just want to add a little fun to a weeknight meal. If you’re looking to shake up your dinner routine or need a winning appetizer for your next gathering, these Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders will not disappoint. So, why not give them a whirl tonight? I promise they’re as easy as they are delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe, shall we?

How to Make Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

Click here to get printable version

Ingredients:

• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup plain panko bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (about 2 oz)
• 1 package (3 oz) cooked bacon bits
• 1 package (14 oz) uncooked chicken tenders
• Chive and onion sour cream potato topper (optional)

Directions:

1. Set your oven to preheat at 400°F. Meanwhile, give a large baking sheet a quick spray with cooking spray.
2. Break the egg into a shallow bowl and whisk it until fully blended. In a separate large resealable plastic bag, combine the panko bread crumbs, shredded Cheddar, and bacon bits.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the beaten egg, allowing any extra to drip off. Place the tenders into the crumb mixture bag, seal it up, and shake gently so each piece is thoroughly coated.
4. Lay the coated chicken tenders out on the prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until the chicken is cooked and the coating is golden brown.
5. Take them out and serve them hot. For a little extra zing, try them with a dollop of the chive and onion sour cream potato topper. Enjoy!

Creative Substitutions to Suit Your Taste

If you’re out of panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will do the trick. Don’t have bacon bits? Try finely chopped ham or turkey bacon for a different twist. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the crumb mixture. You can also substitute the cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor.

Best Ways to Store Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders Leftover

Got leftovers? Place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep them crispy. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Perfect Pairings for Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

These tenders shine with a side of crispy fries or a fresh garden salad. If you’re feeling indulgent, whip up a batch of creamy mac and cheese. For drinks, a cold iced tea or lemonade makes for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. Don’t forget the dipping sauces; honey mustard or ranch are crowd favorites!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking for even cooking. If you want an extra crispy coating, give the tenders a light spray of cooking oil before baking. For tender and juicy meat, avoid overbaking. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This guarantees perfectly cooked chicken every time!

Seasonal Twists for Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

In summer, serve these tenders with a side of corn on the cob or a chilled pasta salad. During fall, pair them with roasted root vegetables. In winter months, they’re delightful alongside a hearty soup. For spring, a fresh asparagus salad complements them beautifully, adding a touch of green to your plate.

FAQs:

Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tenders ahead by breading them and storing them covered in the fridge for up to a day before baking. This makes it easy to pop them into the oven when you’re ready to serve. Just ensure they’re fresh and well-covered to prevent the coating from getting soggy.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal for a crunchy texture. Ensure your bacon bits and other ingredients are certified gluten-free, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of these chicken tenders.

What’s the best way to reheat these tenders?

For the best texture, reheat the chicken tenders in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This helps maintain their crispy coating. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a quick and crispy result. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?

Yes, chicken breast works well too. Simply cut the breast into strips similar in size to tenders. This ensures even cooking and maintains the same delicious flavor. Adjust the baking time slightly if needed, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.

Are there any vegetarian alternatives?

While the original recipe focuses on chicken, you can replace the chicken tenders with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Coat them the same way and bake. The texture will differ, but these substitutes pair nicely with the cheese and bacon bits for a unique vegetarian dish.

What should I do if the coating isn’t sticking well?

If the coating isn’t sticking, ensure the tenders are not too wet after the egg wash. Let excess egg drip off before coating. You can also press the crumb mixture gently onto the tenders before baking, ensuring it adheres properly. This will help keep the coating intact during cooking.