Cheddar bacon chicken tenders are a deliciously indulgent twist on a classic favorite. These crispy, cheesy, and flavorful chicken tenders are perfect for a family dinner, party appetizer, or game-day snack. With a crunchy panko coating enriched with cheddar cheese and crispy bacon, they are sure to satisfy any crowd.

Ingredients

1 pound chicken tenders
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray

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.
Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Set Up the Dredging Station: Place the flour in a separate shallow bowl. Beat the eggs in another shallow bowl.
Coat the Chicken Tenders:

Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off any excess.
Dip the floured chicken tender into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Press the chicken tender into the cheddar-bacon breadcrumb mixture, coating it well on all sides.

Bake the Chicken Tenders: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy version.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like thyme or parsley into the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
Alternative Cheese: Try using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for varied flavor profiles.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken tenders for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.
Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to retain their crispiness.

10 FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips to create your own tenders.
How can I make these tenders healthier?
You can bake them instead of frying and use whole wheat panko breadcrumbs.
What dipping sauces pair well with these tenders?
BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard make excellent accompaniments.
Can I prepare the tenders in advance?
Yes, you can coat the tenders and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Can I air fry these chicken tenders?
Yes, you can air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What should I do if the coating is falling off?
Ensure the chicken is dry before coating and press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture.
Can I make these tenders gluten-free?
Use gluten-free panko and all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
What type of bacon should I use?
Any type of bacon works well; choose your favorite based on flavor preference.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
You can serve these tenders with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Cheddar bacon chicken tenders are a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the savory flavors of cheese and bacon with juicy chicken. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, they make for an excellent meal or snack. Try this recipe today for a deliciously satisfying treat that everyone will love!