Delight in Crispy Cheddar Bacon Bliss with these irresistible chicken tenders, featuring juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar in every bite. Perfect for any meal!
Crispy Cheddar Bacon Bliss: Irresistible Chicken Tenders
If you’re looking to elevate your taste buds with a mouthwatering medley of flavors, then ‘Crispy Cheddar Bacon Bliss: Irresistible Chicken Tenders’ is a must-try recipe. These chicken tenders are not only a treat for the senses with their crunchy texture and delightful taste, but they also bring a new twist by combining the savory aspects of cheddar cheese and bacon. Let's dive into how you can create these heavenly chicken tenders right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup crushed crispy bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil work well)
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by trimming any excess fat or gristle off the chicken tenders.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water. In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, crushed bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Coat the Chicken:
- Take each chicken tender and coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered. Finally, press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure each piece is fully coated with the cheesy bacon breadcrumbs.
Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, pour in oil until it reaches about 1/4 inch up the sides of the skillet. Heat the oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a tiny breadcrumb dropped into the oil sizzles and turns golden brown in about a minute.
Fry the Chicken Tenders:
- Carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry in batches if necessary. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. To ensure the chicken is done, cut into the thickest part of a tender to check if the meat is white and the juices run clear.
Drain and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the tenders from the oil and place them on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Clean Up:
- Allow the oil to cool completely before disposing of it properly. Clean all utensils, bowls, and the skillet used in the process.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Your ‘Crispy Cheddar Bacon Bliss: Irresistible Chicken Tenders’ are ready to serve. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo for an added flavor punch. These chicken tenders are bound to be a hit whether you're serving them at a party, cooking for your family, or treating yourself to an indulgent snack. Enjoy the crunchy, cheesy, and bacon-filled goodness that each bite promises!