Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders: A Savory Twist on a Classic Favorite

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as universally loved as chicken tenders. But what if you could take this classic favorite and elevate it with bold, savory flavors? Enter Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders —a mouthwatering fusion of crispy chicken, gooey cheddar cheese, and smoky bacon. These tenders are perfect for game nights, family dinners, or even as a fun appetizer for parties. With their crunchy exterior, cheesy center, and bacon-wrapped goodness, they’re sure to become a new household favorite.

In this article, we’ll explore why these tenders are worth trying, provide a detailed recipe, highlight their unique flavor profile, and share tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. Let’s dive into this irresistible twist on a classic!

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Why You’ll Love Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

Before we get into the recipe, let’s talk about what makes these chicken tenders so irresistible:

1. A Trio of Flavors

The combination of crispy chicken, melty cheddar cheese, and smoky bacon creates a harmony of textures and tastes that’s hard to resist. Each bite is packed with savory goodness.

2. Perfectly Portable

These tenders are easy to pick up and enjoy, making them ideal for appetizers, snacks, or even lunchboxes. No utensils required!

3. Kid-Friendly Appeal

Kids love anything cheesy and bacon-y, and these tenders are no exception. They’re also a great way to sneak protein into their diet.

4. Customizable Ingredients

You can tailor these tenders to suit your preferences—swap cheeses, adjust seasoning, or use turkey or plant-based alternatives for a twist.

5. Make-Ahead Friendly

Prepare a big batch of these tenders ahead of time and freeze them for later. Simply reheat when ready to serve, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of ingredients to make approximately 12–15 Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders :

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or tenderloins)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6–8 slices of bacon, halved crosswise
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray or oil (for baking)

Optional Dipping Sauces:

• Ranch dressing
• Honey mustard
• Barbecue sauce

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Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into long, thin strips (about 1-inch wide). Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up nicely during baking.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

Place a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese (about 1 teaspoon) in the center of each chicken strip. Carefully fold the edges of the chicken over the cheese, sealing it completely to prevent leaks. If needed, use a toothpick to hold the chicken together while wrapping.

Step 4: Wrap with Bacon

Wrap each stuffed chicken strip with a half-slice of bacon, securing it snugly around the chicken. Use a toothpick to hold the bacon in place if necessary.

Step 5: Bread the Tenders

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Coat each bacon-wrapped chicken tender in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then roll it in the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.

Step 6: Bake Until Crispy

Arrange the breaded tenders seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or brush with oil to help them crisp up in the oven.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes , or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C ) and the bacon is crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the tenders from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.

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Nutritional Highlights of Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

While these tenders are indulgent, they do offer some nutritional benefits thanks to their wholesome ingredients:

1. Protein Powerhouse

Chicken provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and overall body function. The bacon adds extra protein and fat for energy.

2. Calcium from Cheese

The melty cheddar cheese adds calcium and phosphorus, crucial for strong bones and teeth.

3. Healthy Fats from Bacon

While bacon is often considered indulgent, it contains monounsaturated fats that support heart health when consumed in moderation.

4. Portion Control

The tenders’ individual portions make it easy to enjoy a satisfying serving without overindulging.

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Tips for Perfect Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

To ensure your tenders turn out perfectly every time, follow these expert tips:

1. Seal the Cheese Well : Make sure the chicken completely encases the cheese to prevent oozing during baking.
2. Use Thin Chicken Strips : Cut the chicken into thin, even strips to ensure they cook evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
3. Crisp the Bacon : Baking at a high temperature ensures the bacon gets crispy without becoming overly greasy.
4. Don’t Skip the Toothpicks : Use toothpicks to secure the bacon and hold the chicken together while baking.
5. Freeze for Later : Assemble the tenders ahead of time, freeze them unbaked, and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

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Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences:

1. Add Jalapeños

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños alongside the cheddar cheese for a Tex-Mex twist.

2. Swap Cheeses

Try using pepper jack, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

3. Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

4. Air Fryer Method

Cook the tenders in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes for a crispier, lower-fat alternative.

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Serving Suggestions

These versatile tenders shine on their own, but here are a few ways to elevate your meal:

• With Dipping Sauces : Offer a variety of sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue for dipping.
• Party Platter : Arrange the tenders on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing at parties or events.
• Game Day Spread : Include these tenders in a game day spread with wings, sliders, and nachos for a crowd-pleasing menu.
• Brunch Option : Serve alongside scrambled eggs, hash browns, and fruit for a fun brunch twist.

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Conclusion: A Tasty Twist on a Classic

Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders are proof that sometimes the best things come in small packages. Combining the comforting flavors of crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and smoky bacon, these tenders are guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike. Plus, their adaptability makes them suitable for any occasion—from casual dinners to festive celebrations.

So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Once you’ve tasted the magic of these cheesy, bacon-wrapped delights, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. Happy cooking!

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