Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy-to-make dinner option that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. The combination of crispy chicken tenders, smoky bacon, and melted cheddar cheese creates a mouth-watering flavor that is hard to resist.
To make these Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders, all you need are a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it perfect for novice cooks and busy families. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty party appetizer, these chicken tenders are a great choice.
Overall, Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders are a delicious and versatile meal that is sure to impress. With their crispy texture, savory flavor, and easy preparation, they are a great option for anyone looking for a tasty and satisfying dinner. So why not give this recipe a try and see for yourself how delicious these chicken tenders can be?
Key Takeaways
- Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy-to-make dinner option that is perfect for any occasion.
- This recipe requires basic ingredients and kitchen tools, making it a great choice for novice cooks and busy families.
- Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders are a versatile and crowd-pleasing meal that is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Overview of Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders
Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy-to-make dinner option that combines the flavors of cheese, bacon, and chicken. This recipe is perfect for families or anyone who loves comfort food.
To make Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders, chicken tenders are coated in a mixture of bread crumbs, cheese, and bacon, then baked in the oven until crispy. The result is a flavorful and juicy chicken that is sure to be a hit with everyone.
One of the great things about this recipe is that it can be customized to suit your tastes. For example, you can use different types of cheese or add more bacon to make it even more flavorful. Additionally, you can serve the chicken tenders with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing or honey mustard.
Overall, Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy-to-make dinner option that is sure to please everyone. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a party, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress.
Required Ingredients
When it comes to making Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders, there are a few key ingredients that are necessary to achieve the perfect combination of savory flavors. Here are the ingredients that are required for this recipe:
Chicken Preparation
The star of this dish is, of course, the chicken. It’s important to use fresh, boneless, skinless chicken tenders for this recipe. The chicken should be cut into strips that are approximately 1 inch wide and 3-4 inches long.
To prepare the chicken for coating, it’s important to pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the coating to adhere better to the chicken.
Bacon Types and Preparation
Bacon is another key ingredient in this recipe. There are many different types of bacon available, but for this recipe, it’s best to use thick-cut bacon. This will add a nice texture and flavor to the chicken tenders.
To prepare the bacon, it should be cooked until crispy, either in a pan on the stove or in the oven. Once the bacon is cooked, it should be chopped into small pieces to be used in the coating for the chicken tenders.
Cheddar Selection
The final key ingredient in this recipe is cheddar cheese. It’s important to use a good quality cheddar cheese that will melt nicely and add a rich, savory flavor to the chicken tenders.
When selecting cheddar cheese, it’s best to use a sharp or extra sharp variety. This will give the chicken tenders a more pronounced cheddar flavor. The cheese should be grated finely so that it can be easily mixed with the other coating ingredients.
Overall, these three key ingredients – fresh chicken tenders, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese – are essential for making delicious Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders.
Necessary Kitchen Tools
To make Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders, there are a few essential kitchen tools that you will need. These tools will help make the cooking process easier and more efficient. Here are the necessary kitchen tools:
1. Baking Sheet
A baking sheet is an essential tool for making Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders. It is used to bake the chicken tenders in the oven. A baking sheet with a wire rack is recommended to allow the chicken tenders to cook evenly and prevent them from getting soggy.
2. Mixing Bowls
Mixing bowls are necessary for preparing the ingredients for the chicken tenders. You will need at least two mixing bowls, one for the egg wash and one for the bread crumb mixture. It is recommended to use shallow bowls to make it easier to coat the chicken tenders.
3. Food Storage Bag
A large resealable food storage bag is used to coat the chicken tenders with the bread crumb mixture. It is a quick and easy way to coat the chicken tenders evenly and prevent a mess.
4. Cooking Spray
Cooking spray is used to prevent the chicken tenders from sticking to the baking sheet. It is recommended to use a non-stick cooking spray to make it easier to remove the chicken tenders from the baking sheet.
5. Spatula
A spatula is used to flip the chicken tenders over halfway through the cooking process. It is recommended to use a metal spatula to prevent the chicken tenders from sticking to the baking sheet.
By having these necessary kitchen tools, you will be able to make delicious Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders with ease.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Before starting to cook the Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders, it is important to prepare the chicken properly. The chicken should be cut into tenders and seasoned with salt and pepper. Then, the chicken tenders should be wrapped with bacon slices. It is recommended to use thick-cut bacon to ensure that the bacon stays wrapped around the chicken during the cooking process.
Wrapping with Bacon
To wrap the chicken with bacon, start by placing a slice of bacon on a cutting board. Then, place a chicken tender on top of the bacon slice. Roll the bacon around the chicken tender, making sure that the bacon completely covers the chicken. Repeat this process for all of the chicken tenders.
Coating with Cheddar
To coat the Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders with cheddar cheese, start by whisking an egg in a shallow bowl. In another shallow bowl, mix bread crumbs, cheddar cheese, and bacon bits. Dip each bacon-wrapped chicken tender into the egg mixture, then coat it with the bread crumb mixture. Make sure that the chicken tenders are evenly coated with the bread crumb mixture.
Baking the Tenders
To bake the Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders, preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the coated chicken tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. Serve the Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
By following these step-by-step instructions, anyone can easily make delicious Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders for dinner.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Cooking time and temperature are crucial factors in making delicious Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders. The recipe requires heating the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the optimal temperature for baking the chicken tenders to perfection.
The chicken tenders should be baked for about 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken. It is important to use a wire rack placed over a baking sheet to ensure that the chicken is cooked evenly and to prevent it from getting soggy.
To make sure that the chicken is fully cooked, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach a minimum internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to be safe to eat.
In summary, cooking Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders requires preheating the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, baking for 15-20 minutes, and using a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy delicious and juicy chicken tenders that are sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Plating and Presentation Tips
When it comes to presenting cheddar bacon chicken tenders, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure a visually appealing and appetizing dish. Here are some suggestions:
- Use a white or neutral-colored plate to allow the colors of the dish to stand out.
- Arrange the chicken tenders in a straight line or in a fan shape for a professional look.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with dipping sauces, such as ranch or honey mustard, in small ramekins on the side.
- For a more casual presentation, serve the chicken tenders in a basket lined with parchment paper and accompanied by fries or onion rings.
Remember, presentation is key to making any dish look appetizing and appealing. With these tips, you can elevate your cheddar bacon chicken tenders to a restaurant-quality dish that will impress your guests.
Recommended Side Dishes
When it comes to serving Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders, there are plenty of side dishes that can complement this dish. Here are some recommended side dishes that you can try:
1. Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders. The creamy and cheesy flavor of mac and cheese complements the crispy and savory taste of the chicken tenders. You can either make homemade mac and cheese or get a boxed version from the store.
2. Red Cabbage Slaw
Red cabbage slaw is a tangy and crunchy side dish that can add a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavor of Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders. This side dish is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time. Simply mix shredded red cabbage, carrots, and a dressing of your choice.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a healthy and flavorful side dish that can balance out the indulgent taste of Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders. You can roast any vegetables you like, such as carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. Simply toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until tender and crispy.
4. French Fries
French fries are a classic side dish that can never go wrong with Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders. The crispy and salty taste of French fries can complement the savory and crunchy taste of the chicken tenders. You can either make homemade French fries or get a frozen version from the store.
Overall, these side dishes can make a perfect addition to Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders. They are easy to make, delicious, and can satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
After making the Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders for dinner, it is important to store any leftovers properly to maintain their quality and safety. Here are some guidelines for storing and reheating the chicken tenders:
Storage
- Allow the chicken tenders to cool down to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of how long the chicken tenders have been stored.
- Store the chicken tenders in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Discard any leftovers that have been stored for longer than that.
- Do not freeze the chicken tenders as the texture may become soggy upon thawing.
Reheating
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Place the chicken tenders on the baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken tenders in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute or until heated through.
- Avoid reheating the chicken tenders more than once to prevent bacterial growth.
By following these storage and reheating guidelines, you can enjoy the delicious Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders for another meal without compromising their quality and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I ensure the bacon is crispy when baking the chicken tenders?
To ensure that the bacon is crispy when baking the chicken tenders, it is recommended to use thin slices of bacon. You can also try cooking the bacon separately before wrapping it around the chicken tenders to ensure that it is crispy.
What are some side dishes that pair well with cheddar bacon chicken tenders?
Cheddar bacon chicken tenders go well with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or a simple green salad. You can also try serving them with dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard.
What is the recommended internal temperature for chicken tenders to ensure they are fully cooked?
To ensure that the chicken tenders are fully cooked, they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the chicken.
Can I use chicken breast instead of tenderloins for making cheddar bacon chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of tenderloins for making cheddar bacon chicken tenders. However, chicken breast will take longer to cook than tenderloins, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What type of cheese works best for a cheddar bacon chicken tenders recipe?
As the name suggests, cheddar cheese is the best type of cheese to use for a cheddar bacon chicken tenders recipe. However, you can also try using other types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.
Are there any tips for keeping the chicken tenders moist while cooking?
One tip for keeping the chicken tenders moist while cooking is to marinate them in a mixture of buttermilk and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Another tip is to wrap the chicken tenders in bacon, which will help keep them moist and add flavor.