Description
Make these cheddar bacon chicken tenders for an easy dinner or party appetizer! Juicy chicken coated with crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and crunchy breadcrumbs — baked to golden perfection in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breast cut into strips)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a shallow dish, combine cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, and breadcrumbs.
- In a second dish, whisk eggs. In a third dish, mix flour with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pat chicken tenders dry. Coat each in seasoned flour, dip in egg wash, then press into the cheddar-bacon-breadcrumb mixture.
- Place tenders on prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheddar for better melting and flavor.
- For extra crunch, toast the breadcrumbs before mixing them with cheese and bacon.
- Try adding cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes for an even crispier result.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes