Can I use different bread instead of hot dog buns?

Absolutely! While hot dog buns create the authentic "bird dog" experience, this combination works wonderfully on hamburger buns, sub rolls, or even inside tortillas for a wrap version. Just adjust your baking time accordingly for larger or smaller bread options.

How do I make these a bit healthier?

Try using grilled chicken instead of breaded tenders, turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also use whole grain buns and a lighter version of honey mustard or even a yogurt-based sauce to cut calories without sacrificing flavor.

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

For the crispiest, most evenly cooked bacon, bake it on a rack over a sheet pan in a 400°F oven for about 15-20 minutes. This method reduces shrinkage and creates perfectly crisp bacon that's ideal for crumbling.

Can I prepare components ahead for a party?

Definitely! Cook and crumble the bacon, prepare or purchase the chicken tenders, and shred the cheese up to two days in advance. Store everything separately in the refrigerator, then assembly will take just minutes before baking.

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 cooked breaded chicken tenders; 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled; 1 & 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; Honey mustard (to taste, for serving)

Description

This Southern Chicken Bird Dog Sandwich recipe is the epitome of comfort food made easy! Crispy breaded chicken tenders, savory bacon, melty cheese, and sweet honey mustard are layered inside perfectly toasted hot dog buns for a satisfying meal that’s ready in minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or even a hearty snack, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Sandwich Base

6 hot dog buns
6 cooked breaded chicken tenders

Toppings

6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
1 & 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Honey mustard (to taste, for serving)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F to prepare for toasting the sandwiches. This step ensures that everything is warm and perfectly melted when served.
Prepare the Buns
Place the hot dog buns on a sheet tray. Open each bun and sprinkle half of the crispy crumbled bacon inside. This adds a savory base of flavor for the sandwich.
Add the Chicken
Place one crispy breaded chicken tender in each bun. The chicken is the heart of this recipe, so ensure it fits snugly into the bun.
Add the Toppings
Sprinkle the remaining bacon over the chicken tenders. Then, top with the shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese will help lock all the ingredients together once melted.
Toast and Melt
Place the buns on the sheet tray into the preheated oven. Bake for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are lightly toasted. Be careful not to over-toast the buns.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the sandwiches from the oven, drizzle with honey mustard to your liking, and serve them immediately while warm. Pair with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.

Notes

The recipe yields six servings, but you can easily halve or double the batch for smaller or larger groups.
Store-bought items like hot dog buns, chicken tenders, and honey mustard make this recipe simple and quick to prepare.
To freeze, allow the sandwiches to cool completely, wrap them individually in foil, and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Swap out sharp cheddar cheese for your favorite cheese like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Colby to customize the flavor.
Serve these sandwiches with coleslaw, fries, or a simple side salad for a balanced meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 455kcal
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 80mg