Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these mouth-watering Cheddar Bacon Chicken Tenders! Crispy, savory, and oh-so-delicious, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your loved ones.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a bowl, mix together the cheddar cheese, bacon, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Dip each chicken tender into the cheese mixture, pressing it on to coat evenly.
• Place the coated chicken tenders on the baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.

Popular questions:

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.

• Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon if you prefer a leaner option.

• Can I use a different type of cheese?

You can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.

• How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

• Can I freeze these chicken tenders?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked coated chicken tenders for later use. Just bake them from frozen for an extra few minutes.

Helpful tips:

• For extra crispy chicken tenders, finish them under the broiler for a minute or two after baking.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
• Serve these chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or honey mustard.
• Feel free to add some additional seasonings to the cheese mixture, like cayenne pepper or dried herbs, for extra flavor.

Expert Secrets:

• Make sure to pat the chicken tenders dry before coating them to ensure the cheese mixture sticks well.
• Use a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to elevate the chicken tenders while baking for even crispiness.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add some hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a buffalo chicken twist.
• Try using different types of bacon, like maple or applewood smoked, for a unique flavor profile.