When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot quite like Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders. These crispy, cheesy bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining the rich flavors of cheddar and bacon with tender, juicy chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, game day snack, or a fun meal for kids, these homemade chicken tenders will quickly become a family favorite!
This easy-to-follow recipe is baked—not fried—so you can enjoy a guilt-free indulgence with all the crunch and flavor you love. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love These Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders
What sets these chicken tenders apart is the irresistible combination of crispy breadcrumb coating, gooey cheddar cheese, and smoky crumbled bacon. Baking the tenders keeps them light while still delivering that satisfying crunch. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, and you’ve got a dish that everyone will devour.
Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or oil (for greasing)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil. - Prepare the Coating
Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes:- Dish 1: Flour
- Dish 2: Beaten eggs
- Dish 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Chicken Tenders
Dip each chicken tender into the flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off, and finally press it into the breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet. - Add the Cheddar and Bacon
Top each breaded chicken tender with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Press lightly to help the toppings adhere. - Bake to Perfection
Bake the tenders in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy. - Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces—ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce are all great options. Enjoy this cheesy, savory treat!
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Tenders:
- Double-Coating: For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a thicker coating.
- Cheese Hack: Use freshly grated cheddar for maximum melt and flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Why These Chicken Tenders Are Perfect for Any Occasion
These tenders are a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. They’re versatile enough to serve as a main dish, snack, or appetizer. Plus, because they’re baked, you can enjoy all the indulgence with a fraction of the calories compared to fried chicken.
Did you try this recipe? Let me know how it turned out in the comments below, and don’t forget to share it with your friends! Follow me for more easy and delicious recipes that bring comfort and joy to your table.
Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders – A Crispy, Cheesy Delight
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 4 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Dip each chicken tender first in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess, then in the egg mixture, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the chicken tenders.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
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