Introduction
Get ready for a crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying treat with these Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders! Perfect for an easy dinner or a fun appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit with the whole family. Dive into the cheesy goodness topped with savory bacon bliss!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Tenders:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
4. Coat each chicken tender first in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
5. Place the breaded tenders on the baking sheet and top each with a generous spoonful of the cheese and bacon mixture.
6. Spray or drizzle the tenders with cooking oil and bake for about 15 minutes until golden and cooked through.
7. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Set Up Breading Station
Create a breading station with three bowls:
– One bowl with 1/2 cup all-purpose flour.
– One bowl with 2 large eggs, beaten.
– One bowl with 1 cup breadcrumbs mixed with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Prepare Cheese and Bacon Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon. Mix well to distribute evenly.
Step 4: Coat Chicken Tenders
Take each chicken tender and coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, ensuring it is well-coated. Finally, press the tender into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Step 5: Arrange Tenders on Baking Sheet
Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Top each tender with a generous spoonful of the cheese and bacon mixture to enhance flavor.
Step 6: Bake the Tenders
Spray or drizzle the tenders with cooking oil to promote crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the tenders to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
These chicken tenders can be accompanied by a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Customization Options
Feel free to customize the cheese type or add additional spices to the breadcrumb mixture for a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments
For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
Cook techniques
1. Breading Technique
To ensure a crispy coating, use a three-step breading process: first coat the chicken tenders in flour, which helps the egg adhere. Next, dip them in beaten eggs for moisture, then press into the breadcrumbs mixed with seasonings for a flavorful crunch.
2. Cheese and Bacon Topping
Combine shredded cheddar cheese with crumbled bacon to create a rich topping. Spoon this mixture onto each breaded tender before baking for an added layer of flavor and texture.
3. Baking for Crispiness
Bake the tenders at a high temperature (400°F/200°C) to achieve a golden and crispy exterior while ensuring the chicken is cooked through. Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
4. Using Cooking Oil
Spraying or drizzling the tenders with cooking oil before baking enhances browning and crispness. It also helps the cheese and bacon topping meld beautifully onto the tenders.
5. Cooling Before Serving
Allow the tenders to cool slightly after baking to let the flavors settle and for the cheese to firm up a bit. This makes them easier to handle and serves well with dipping sauces.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips to make your own tenders. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, as larger pieces may take longer to cook through.
Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bread the chicken tenders and store them in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before baking, or freeze them for longer storage. Just ensure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are frozen.
What dipping sauces pair well with these tenders?
These cheesy bacon tenders pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or even a spicy aioli for an extra kick.
Can I make them healthier?
You can opt for whole wheat breadcrumbs, bake instead of frying, and use less cheese or turkey bacon for a lighter version without sacrificing too much flavor.
What sides go well with Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders?
Serve these tenders with a side of vegetables, a fresh salad, or sweet potato fries for a balanced meal that complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
Conclusion
These Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders are a delicious and satisfying dish that can easily be incorporated into family dinners or as a fun appetizer. With simple techniques and a few tips, you can master this recipe and enjoy the cheesy, crispy goodness!
