Quick & Zesty Cheddar Cheese Chicken Tenders Recipe for Dinner

These crispy, golden cheddar cheese chicken tenders will become an instant family favorite that elevates weeknight dinners from ordinary to extraordinary.

Packed with sharp, melted cheddar cheese chicken tenders that crackle with every bite, this recipe promises irresistible flavor and texture.

Each tender comes coated in a perfectly seasoned breading that locks in juicy chicken while creating a delightfully crunchy exterior.

The combination of tender chicken and sharp cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that both kids and adults will devour.

Simple ingredients transform simple chicken into a restaurant-worthy dish that takes minimal effort.

Weeknight cooking just got a delicious upgrade with these irresistible chicken tenders that are sure to have everyone asking for seconds.

Prepare to be the dinner hero with this crowd-pleasing recipe that’s guaranteed to disappear from the plate in minutes.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other melting cheeses like mozzarella, monterey jack, or parmesan for varied flavor profiles.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! These chicken tenders can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking, making them perfect for quick weeknight meals.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), which ensures it’s safe to eat and thoroughly cooked.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply replace regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to create a celiac-friendly version of the dish.

Cheddar Cheese Chicken Tenders for the Win

• Packed with protein from chicken and calcium-rich cheddar cheese, this recipe offers a wholesome meal that supports muscle growth and overall health.
• Swap bread crumbs for gluten-free alternatives or experiment with different cheese types to match your dietary preferences and taste buds.
• Crispy, cheesy exterior makes these chicken tenders irresistible for children, transforming mealtime into a fun and enjoyable experience.
• Minimal preparation steps and straightforward ingredients mean you can whip up a delicious dinner in less than an hour, perfect for busy families.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Tenders

• Chicken Tenders: Tender strips of chicken that create the main protein for this delicious dish.

• Eggs, Shredded Cheddar Cheese, Bread Crumbs: A crispy and flavorful mixture that provides a golden, cheesy exterior to the chicken tenders.

• Parchment Paper, Cooking Spray: Essential for preventing the chicken tenders from sticking and ensuring easy cleanup.

Tools for Crunchy Chicken Tender Prep

• Baking Sheet: Large, flat pan for even cooking and crispy chicken tenders.
• Parchment Paper: Non-stick surface to prevent sticking and easy cleanup.
• Mixing Bowls: One for eggs, another for cheddar cheese and bread crumb coating.
• Whisk or Fork: To beat eggs thoroughly and create smooth coating.
• Cheese Grater: For shredding fresh cheddar cheese for maximum flavor.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient proportions.

Chicken Tender Instructions for Cheesy Results

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C) and let it heat up while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Egg Bath Preparation

Crack the eggs into a shallow bowl and whisk them until well blended and smooth.

Step 3: Create Cheesy Crumb Mixture

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Bread crumbs
• Pinch of salt
• Dash of black pepper

Step 4: Dunk And Coat Chicken

Dip each chicken tender into the whisked eggs, allowing excess to drip off.

Then roll the tender in the cheesy crumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick perfectly.

Step 5: Arrange On Baking Sheet

Lay out the coated chicken tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they aren’t touching each other.

Step 6: Bake To Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.

The tenders are ready when they turn a gorgeous golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 7: Rest And Serve

Remove from oven and let the chicken tenders rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.

This helps keep them juicy and allows the coating to set.

Tips for the Best Cheddar Chicken Tenders

• Use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar for a more intense flavor that really makes these chicken tenders pop.
• Place a wire rack on your baking sheet to allow air circulation, ensuring crispy coating all around the chicken.
• Pat chicken tenders completely dry with paper towels before coating to help the breading stick better and create a crunchier exterior.
• Swap regular bread crumbs with gluten-free panko or almond flour for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Use a meat thermometer to verify chicken reaches 165°F internally for safe and perfectly cooked tenders.

Cheesy Chicken Tender Variations You’ll Enjoy

• Parmesan Herb Chicken Tenders: Replace cheddar with grated parmesan cheese and add dried Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to the coating for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Gluten-Free Almond Crusted Tenders: Swap bread crumbs with ground almond meal and use gluten-free cheese for a low-carb, celiac-friendly option that's crispy and nutritious.
• Spicy Pepper Jack Chicken Tenders: Substitute cheddar with pepper jack cheese and mix in some cayenne or chili powder to create a zesty, heat-packed coating that adds a kick to the classic recipe.

Serving Cheddar Cheese Chicken Tenders

• Cheesy Dip Delight: Serve with a creamy ranch or tangy blue cheese dressing for extra flavor and dipping excitement.
• Family Plate Perfection: Pair with crispy roasted vegetables like broccoli or sweet potato wedges for a balanced meal that everyone will love.
• Sandwich Transformation: Slice the chicken tenders and layer them in a soft brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of mayonnaise for a gourmet chicken sandwich experience.
• Salad Topper Magic: Slice the tenders and sprinkle over a fresh green salad with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette for a protein-packed lunch option.

Storing Cheddar Cheese Chicken Tenders for Freshness

• Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual tenders in plastic wrap, place in freezer-safe bags, and store for up to 3 months, ensuring they're sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Preheat oven to 375F, spread tenders on a baking sheet, and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through, restoring crispy texture.
• Place tenders on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, checking to prevent overcooking and maintain moisture.

Cheddar Cheese Chicken Tenders Recipe

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4.6 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy cheddar cheese chicken tenders deliver a mouthwatering blend of golden breading and sharp cheese flavors. Home cooks will enjoy this simple protein dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to dinner tables.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 lb (450 g) chicken tenders

Cheese:

• 1 cup (100 g) cheddar cheese, shredded

Binding and Coating:

• 1 cup (120 g) bread crumbs
• 2 eggs

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 400F (200C), positioning the rack in the center for even cooking.
2. Whisk eggs in a shallow dish, creating a smooth base for coating the chicken tenders.
3. Mix shredded cheddar cheese with bread crumbs in a separate bowl, creating a textured and flavorful breading mixture.
4. Dunk each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off for an even coating.
5. Roll the egg-drenched tender in the cheddar-bread crumb mixture, gently pressing to ensure a complete and uniform crust.
6. Arrange the coated tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for crisp edges.
7. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165F and the exterior turns golden brown and crunchy.

Notes

• Ensure chicken tenders are patted dry before coating to help the breading adhere perfectly and create a crispier texture.
• Swap bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Add extra flavor by mixing herbs like dried parsley, garlic powder, or paprika into the cheese and bread crumb coating for a more complex taste profile.
• Let chicken tenders rest for a few minutes after baking to help the coating set and maintain maximum crunchiness when serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 180 mg