Description
Crispy cheddar bacon chicken tenders deliver a mouthwatering fusion of savory flavors that dance on your palate. Succulent chicken wrapped in cheesy, bacon-studded goodness promises a delightful meal packed with irresistible comfort and Southern-style indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) chicken tenders
Coating and Seasoning:
- 1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (60 grams) panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup (100 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (100 grams) cooked bacon, finely crumbled
- 2 large eggs
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Additional:
- Cooking spray or oil (if baking)
Instructions
- Meticulously pat the chicken tenders completely dry using paper towels to guarantee optimal breading adhesion.
- Infuse the chicken tenders with a robust blend of seasonings, massaging salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika thoroughly across each piece for comprehensive flavor distribution.
- Construct a strategic three-bowl breading assembly: dedicate one bowl to flour, another to whisked eggs, and the third to a tantalizing mixture of breadcrumbs, crispy crumbled bacon, and sharp shredded cheddar cheese.
- Execute the breading technique methodically: delicately dust each tender in flour, ensuring a light, even coating; submerge in beaten egg for binding; then generously encase with the bacon-cheese breadcrumb mixture, applying gentle pressure to secure the crust.
- Activate a large skillet with medium heat and introduce oil. Carefully lower the breaded chicken tenders into the sizzling pan, allowing each side to transform into a golden, crispy exterior for approximately 3-4 minutes, verifying internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F.
- Transfer the perfectly cooked tenders onto a paper towel-lined plate, permitting excess oil to be absorbed and maintaining the crisp texture.
- Present the cheddar bacon chicken tenders alongside complementary dipping sauces like zesty ranch, smoky BBQ, or sweet honey mustard for a complete culinary experience.
Notes
- Pat chicken tenders completely dry to guarantee a crispy, well-adhered breading that won’t fall off during cooking.
- Use fresh, high-quality bacon for maximum flavor impact and ensure it’s crumbled into small, even pieces for consistent seasoning.
- Maintain consistent oil temperature around 350°F to prevent soggy or burnt chicken tenders, using a thermometer for precise monitoring.
- For gluten-free adaptation, substitute regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs without compromising the recipe’s delicious texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg