Cheesy Bacon Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a delicious and kid-friendly meal or snack, these Cheesy Bacon Chicken Tenders are a fantastic option. With a crispy coating of breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon, these chicken tenders are packed with flavor in every bite. They’re perfect for a family dinner, party appetizer, or a hearty snack. Easy to make and baked (or fried) to perfection, these tenders are bound to become a favorite. This recipe uses a blend of seasonings and cheese for a rich, savory flavor that’s hard to resist!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
  • Cooking spray or vegetable oil, for baking

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. If frying, heat oil to medium-high in a large skillet.
    • Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. If using chicken breasts, slice them into 1-inch strips.
  2. Set Up the Coating Station:
    • In one shallow bowl, add the flour.
    • In a second bowl, beat the eggs.
    • In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. If using Parmesan cheese, add it here as well.
  3. Coat the Chicken Tenders:
    • Dip each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off any excess.
    • Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
    • Finally, roll each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere to the chicken.
  4. Arrange for Baking or Frying:
    • For baking: Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray each tender with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
    • For frying: Carefully place the breaded tenders into the hot oil in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Bake or Fry:
    • Bake the tenders for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. If frying, transfer each tender to a paper towel-lined plate once they’re crispy and golden on both sides.
  6. Serve:
    • Let the tenders cool slightly before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approx. 2-3 tenders)

  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 25g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and serving sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I use other cheeses besides cheddar?
    • Absolutely! Try mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for a hint of spice. Parmesan adds a nice depth, but feel free to mix cheeses according to your taste.
  2. Can I make these tenders gluten-free?
    • Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  3. What can I use if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
    • Crushed cornflakes or finely crushed crackers can make excellent substitutes. You can also use finely chopped nuts for a unique texture.
  4. How can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
    • Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.

Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Bacon Chicken Tenders

  1. Choose the Right Chicken:
    • If you have the choice, use chicken tenders as they cook evenly and are naturally tender. If using chicken breasts, slice them thinly and evenly for consistent cooking.
  2. Avoid Over-Coating:
    • When coating the chicken, be careful not to over-coat with flour. A light dusting will allow the egg and breadcrumbs to stick without getting too thick.
  3. Bake on a Rack:
    • If baking, place the chicken tenders on a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the tenders, making them crispier without needing extra oil.
  4. Adjust Seasonings to Taste:
    • Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture. Add a little cayenne pepper for heat or Italian seasoning for an herby twist.
  5. Rest After Cooking:
    • Let the tenders cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep the coating intact and prevents them from becoming soggy.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the cooked tenders by placing them on a baking sheet and freezing until solid, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Conclusion

Cheesy Bacon Chicken Tenders offer a delicious twist on classic chicken tenders, with layers of flavor from the cheese, bacon, and seasonings. They’re easy to make, whether you choose to bake or fry them, and perfect for serving at gatherings or as a tasty snack. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, followed by the cheesy, savory flavors of bacon and seasoned chicken. With options to customize and tips for perfect results, this recipe is a surefire hit that’s bound to become a go-to for family dinners, game day snacks, or anytime cravings. Enjoy these tenders with your favorite dipping sauces and savor the crowd-pleasing flavors!