Southern Chicken Bird Dogs are the ultimate comfort food—crispy fried chicken tenders, melty cheese, smoky bacon, and a drizzle of honey mustard, all packed into a soft, toasted bun. This easy and indulgent meal is perfect for game days, BBQs, or weeknight dinners when you’re craving something bold and delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Cheesy – A perfect balance of crunchy chicken and melty cheddar.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal effort.
- Sweet & Savory – Smoky bacon and tangy honey mustard add amazing flavor.
- Perfect for Gatherings – A fun twist on a classic Southern favorite.
- Customizable – Switch up the toppings for endless variations.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 hot dog buns
- 4 crispy fried chicken tenders (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- ¼ cup honey mustard sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for toasting buns)
Directions
- Preheat Oven – Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Toast the Buns – Brush the inside of each hot dog bun with melted butter and place them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 3-5 minutes until slightly golden.
- Assemble the Bird Dogs – Place one crispy chicken tender inside each toasted bun. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake to Melt Cheese – Return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Add Bacon & Sauce – Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the top and drizzle with honey mustard.
- Serve & Enjoy – Serve warm with a side of fries, chips, or coleslaw for a perfect Southern-style meal!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 480 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha for extra heat.
- Buffalo Style – Toss the chicken in buffalo sauce before assembling.
- BBQ Bird Dogs – Swap honey mustard for BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
- Ranch Lover’s Twist – Drizzle with ranch dressing instead of honey mustard.
- Grilled Option – Use grilled chicken tenders for a lighter version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating – Warm in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
- Make-Ahead Tip – Cook the chicken and bacon ahead of time, then assemble and bake just before serving.
FAQs
What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Crispy fried chicken tenders work best, but grilled or baked chicken tenders can also be used.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Pepper Jack, mozzarella, or Colby Jack are great alternatives.
How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?
Toasting the buns before assembling helps keep them from becoming too soft.
Can I use store-bought honey mustard?
Yes! Any favorite honey mustard sauce works, or you can make a homemade version.
What sides pair well with these bird dogs?
French fries, coleslaw, mac and cheese, or a simple side salad are all great choices.
Can I make this recipe with regular hot dogs instead of chicken?
Yes! While the chicken gives it a unique Southern twist, regular hot dogs can also be used.
How can I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free buns and breaded gluten-free chicken tenders.
Can I cook the chicken in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What’s the best way to melt the cheese evenly?
Baking for a few minutes at 375°F ensures an even melt without overcooking the buns.
Can I prep these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything except the honey mustard, then bake when ready to serve.
Conclusion
These Southern Chicken Bird Dogs combine crispy chicken, smoky bacon, melty cheese, and sweet honey mustard into one irresistible dish. Perfect for cookouts, tailgating, or an easy family dinner, they deliver bold flavors with minimal effort. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a true Southern comfort food experience!
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Southern Chicken Bird Dogs
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy fried chicken tenders, melty cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and a drizzle of honey mustard—all packed into a soft bun for the ultimate Southern comfort food!
Ingredients
- 4 hot dog buns
- 4 crispy fried chicken tenders (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup honey mustard sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for toasting buns)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven – Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Toast the Buns – Brush the inside of each hot dog bun with melted butter and place them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 3-5 minutes until slightly golden.
3️⃣ Assemble the Bird Dogs – Place one crispy chicken tender inside each toasted bun. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
4️⃣ Bake to Melt Cheese – Return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
5️⃣ Add Bacon & Sauce – Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the top and drizzle with honey mustard.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy – Serve warm with a side of fries, chips, or coleslaw for a perfect Southern-style meal!
Notes
- Swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack for a spicy kick!
- Use BBQ sauce or ranch dressing instead of honey mustard for a different twist.
- Toasting the buns helps keep them from getting soggy.
- Serve with sweet potato fries or baked beans for a classic Southern combo!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking, Assembling
- Cuisine: Southern, American
