Description
Cheesy Bacon Chicken Tenders
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken tenders
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/4 cup cooked bacon bits
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Dipping Sauce:
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons ranch dressing
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Tenders:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, grated cheddar cheese, cooked bacon bits, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken tender into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
3. Place the coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil for a golden, crispy crust.
4. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
5. Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
While the chicken is baking, mix together the sour cream, ranch dressing, and fresh parsley (if using) in a small bowl.
6. Serve:
Serve the cheesy bacon chicken tenders hot with the dipping sauce on the side.
These Cheesy Bacon Chicken Tenders are a crispy, cheesy treat topped with bacon and served with a creamy ranch dip that’s perfect for any meal or snack!
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect tenders every time. First, ensure your chicken tenders are patted dry with a paper towel; this is crucial for the coating to adhere. In a shallow dish, thoroughly combine the breadcrumbs, cheese, bacon bits, and seasonings. In a separate dish, lightly beat one egg. Now, dip each tender first into the egg, letting excess drip off, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides. Place them on the parchment-lined sheet. The drizzle of olive oil is non-negotiable for achieving that golden crispness. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for doneness.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile tenders can be the star of many meals. For a fun dinner, serve them alongside crispy french fries and coleslaw. Transform them into a hearty salad by slicing and placing them over fresh greens with cherry tomatoes, red onion, and croutons. They also make excellent fillings for wraps or sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, and an extra drizzle of the ranch sauce. For a party appetizer, cut them into bite-sized pieces and serve with the dipping sauce in the center.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Dry chicken, mix coating, dip in egg, coat thoroughly, bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes until golden and cooked through. Simultaneously, mix sour cream and ranch for the dip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders? Yes, but slice them into even strips to match the size of tenders. Baking time may increase slightly.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Substitute the breadcrumbs with an equal amount of gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Can I prepare these ahead of time? You can coat the tenders and refrigerate them on the baking sheet for up to 4 hours before baking. For best texture, bake just before serving.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I use an air fryer? Absolutely. Cook at 380°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: 1) Not drying the chicken, which leads to a sloppy coating. 2) Skipping the egg wash or a pressuring step, resulting in patchy breading. 3) Overcrowding the baking sheet, which steams the tenders instead of crisping them. 4) Using raw bacon bits in the coating; they won’t cook through. Always use pre-cooked bacon. 5) Cutting into the chicken immediately after baking; let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Bacon Chicken Tenders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying dish. The step-by-step guide ensures a crispy, cheesy crust with perfectly cooked chicken inside, while the serving ideas make it adaptable for any occasion. By avoiding common mistakes and utilizing the provided tips, you can master this easy recipe. It’s a delicious proof that weeknight dinners or game-day snacks don’t have to be complicated to be incredibly tasty.