Can I use regular bread instead of hot dog buns?

Absolutely! While hot dog buns create the authentic "bird dog" experience, you can use hamburger buns, hoagie rolls, or even Texas toast. Just adjust the baking time slightly if using thicker bread.

What's the best way to cook the chicken tenders for this recipe?

For convenience, high-quality frozen chicken tenders baked according to package directions work perfectly. If you prefer homemade, simply bread chicken tenderloins and bake or fry until crispy and cooked through.

Can I make these healthier?

Yes! Use grilled chicken instead of breaded tenders, turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, whole grain buns, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also make a lighter honey mustard using Greek yogurt as the base.

Why is it called a "Bird Dog" sandwich?

The name comes from combining chicken (bird) with a hot dog bun. It's a playful Southern twist on traditional sandwiches, originating in the South where creative comfort food combinations are celebrated.

Southern Chicken Bird Dog Sandwich Recipe

Name: Southern Chicken Bird Dog Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 6 hot dog buns; 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled; 6 cooked breaded chicken tenders; 1 & 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; Honey mustard (to serve)

Description

This Southern Chicken Bird Dog Sandwich is a delicious, comforting fusion of crispy breaded chicken tenders, smoky bacon, melted sharp cheddar cheese, and tangy honey mustard, all nestled in a toasted hot dog bun. It’s a satisfying, quick meal that’s perfect for gatherings, game days, or a fun family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Sandwich Components

6 hot dog buns
6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
6 cooked breaded chicken tenders
1 & 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Honey mustard (to serve)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the hot dog buns on a baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced for even toasting.
Layer Bacon
Open the hot dog buns and line the inside of each bun with half of the crumbled crispy bacon. This will create a smoky, flavorful foundation for the sandwich.
Add Chicken Tenders
Insert one crispy chicken tender into each hot dog bun, ensuring it’s centered and well-fitted for the perfect bite.
Add Cheese and Bacon
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top of each sandwich, along with the remaining bacon crumbles for an extra layer of gooey, cheesy flavor paired with smoky goodness.
Toast in Oven
Place the sandwiches in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, and the buns are lightly golden and toasted.
Top with Honey Mustard and Serve
Drizzle honey mustard over each sandwich to your desired taste, or serve it on the side for dipping. Serve immediately while the sandwiches are warm and fresh.

Notes

This recipe makes six servings but can be easily adjusted—double for larger crowds or halve it for a smaller gathering.
Freezes well! Wrap individual sandwiches in foil and store in the freezer. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Customization is easy: use different cheeses or switch bacon for turkey bacon for a slightly healthier option.
Use store-bought ingredients to save time—frozen chicken tenders, pre-cooked bacon, and pre-shredded cheese make this recipe fast and convenient.
Perfect for game days, picnics, or casual gatherings.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 450 kcal
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 85mg