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This Bird Dog sandwich is the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining crispy chicken tenders and bacon in a hot dog bun. It delivers all the satisfaction of a chicken sandwich with the fun format of a hot dog, topped with a sweet and tangy sauce that brings everything together perfectly.
I first created these sandwiches when looking for a fun way to use up leftover chicken tenders. My family went crazy for them, and now they request "those chicken hot dog things" at least twice a month. The combination of crispy chicken, smoky bacon and that addictive sauce makes these irresistible.
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base for our signature sauce
- Smokey barbecue sauce: Adds depth and that classic backyard cookout flavor
- Honey: Balances the tang with natural sweetness
- Yellow mustard: Provides classic hot dog flavor and brightness
- Dijon mustard: Adds sophisticated sharpness
- Lemon juice: Cuts through the richness and wakes up all the flavors
- Breaded chicken tenders: The star. Look for extra crispy varieties for best texture
- Thick cut bacon: Delivers hearty smoke and salt. Choose quality bacon for best results
- Brioche hot dog buns: Offer buttery richness. The softness contrasts perfectly with crispy fillings
- Fresh vegetables: Add crunch and freshness to balance the rich components
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Special Sauce:
- Combine mayonnaise, both mustards, barbecue sauce, honey, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Whisk thoroughly until completely smooth and uniform in color. Refrigerate while preparing other ingredients to allow flavors to meld. The sauce will thicken slightly when chilled, creating the perfect consistency for spreading.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Prepare chicken tenders according to package directions, ensuring they reach 165°F internal temperature. For extra crispy results, use an air fryer at 400°F for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Look for golden brown color and listen for that satisfying crunch when done. Remember that different brands and sizes require different cooking times.
- Prepare the Bacon:
- Cook bacon until crispy but still slightly pliable. For oven method, arrange slices on a rimmed baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes. For stovetop, cook over medium heat, turning frequently until evenly browned. Drain on paper towels to remove excess grease. Break or cut strips to fit bun length if necessary.
- Toast the Buns:
- Lightly toast brioche buns for about 1 minute. This creates a barrier that prevents the sauce from making the bun soggy and adds subtle texture. Be careful not to over toast as brioche can quickly go from perfect to burnt. The buns should remain soft with just a light golden interior.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread a generous layer of sauce on both sides of each toasted bun. Place hot chicken tenders inside, fitting them to the bun size. Layer crispy bacon on top of chicken. Add shredded lettuce, followed by tomato slices, red onion, and pickles. Finish with a light sprinkle of fresh black pepper and an extra drizzle of sauce if desired.
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The sauce is truly what makes these sandwiches special. I discovered the perfect balance after several attempts, and the hint of honey was the secret ingredient that tied everything together. My husband now puts this sauce on practically everything from fries to grilled chicken.
Make Ahead Tips
The special sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. In fact, it tastes even better after the flavors have had time to marry. Just give it a quick stir before using as some separation may occur.
Ingredient Swaps
While brioche buns provide the perfect buttery base, regular hot dog buns or even small submarine rolls work well too. For a healthier option, whole grain buns add nutty flavor and extra fiber.
Serving Suggestions
These Bird Dog sandwiches pair perfectly with crispy french fries or sweet potato fries. For a lighter option, serve with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sandwich.
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This recipe delivers on flavor, fun presentation, and family-friendly appeal. It's bound to be a hit for any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make the Bird Dog sandwich sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce actually benefits from being made ahead. You can prepare it up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to blend together more thoroughly.
- → What can I substitute for brioche hot dog buns?
If brioche buns aren't available, you can use regular hot dog buns, pretzel rolls, or even submarine rolls. The key is finding a bun that can hold all the fillings without falling apart. Toasting any substitute bun will help it hold up better.
- → Can I make these Bird Dog sandwiches with homemade chicken tenders?
Absolutely! To make homemade chicken tenders, slice chicken breasts into strips, dip in flour, then beaten egg, and finally in seasoned breadcrumbs. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and cooked through, or air fry at 380°F for 10-12 minutes.
- → What sides pair well with Bird Dog sandwiches?
These sandwiches pair wonderfully with crispy french fries, sweet potato fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or a light green salad. For a lighter option, try roasted vegetables or a corn and black bean salad.
- → How can I make these sandwiches spicy?
To add heat, incorporate hot sauce or cayenne pepper into the sauce mixture. You could also use spicy BBQ sauce instead of smoky, add jalapeños as a topping, or use pepper jack cheese as an additional ingredient. Spicy chicken tenders can also be substituted for regular ones.
- → Can I prepare elements of this sandwich for a crowd?
Yes! For serving a group, set up a build-your-own sandwich bar with all components laid out separately. Prepare the sauce in advance, cook chicken tenders and bacon in large batches, and pre-slice all vegetables. Toast the buns just before serving or let guests toast their own.