South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches

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Golden-fried chicken tenders tucked into soft hoagie rolls, drizzled with honey mustard and sprinkled with crispy bacon and cheese—South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches are a Southern comfort classic that hits every craving. These handheld beauties are perfect for game day, family dinners, or just when you want something easy yet mouthwateringly delicious.

What makes them extra special? It’s the playful balance between crispy, creamy, salty, and sweet. Inspired by the small-town diners of South Carolina, the Bird Dog Sandwich transforms simple ingredients into a crave-worthy experience you’ll want to make on repeat.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

While you can technically use grilled chicken or baked strips, crispy fried chicken tenders are the heart of an authentic Bird Dog. Their crunchy exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft bun and creamy toppings. Go for homemade tenders if you have time, or grab your favorite frozen variety for a quick weeknight fix.

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Ingredients for the South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches

• Chicken tenders: The star of the show, providing crispy, juicy bites.
• Hoagie rolls or hot dog buns: Soft bread to cradle all the goodness.
• Honey mustard sauce: Sweet and tangy drizzle that ties everything together.
• Cooked bacon: Crumbled for salty, smoky flavor.
• Shredded cheese: Cheddar or a cheddar blend adds melty, creamy richness.
• Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle on top for a pop of color and freshness.

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How To Make the South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cook your chicken tenders according to your preference. If you’re making them from scratch, season and fry until golden and crisp. If using frozen, bake or air-fry until hot and crunchy.

Step 2: Toast the Buns

While the chicken cooks, lightly toast the hoagie rolls or hot dog buns. This keeps the bread from getting soggy and adds a little extra texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Place two to three chicken tenders in each bun. Drizzle generously with honey mustard sauce, making sure every bite will get a little sweetness.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon over the chicken, then top with a handful of shredded cheddar cheese. If you like, pop the sandwiches under the broiler for a minute to melt the cheese.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while everything is warm and melty!

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Serving and Storing South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches

These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, right after assembly when the chicken is crispy and the cheese is gooey. Serve them with kettle chips, coleslaw, or a pickle on the side for the ultimate Southern plate.

If you have leftovers, store the chicken, bacon, and buns separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness before assembling again.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make them spicier?

Add a drizzle of hot honey or a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken before topping with cheese.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free tenders and buns to easily adapt this recipe.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack add a nice twist.

Can I prep anything ahead?

You can cook the bacon and mix the honey mustard sauce in advance, saving time at assembly.

Are they good for a crowd?

Absolutely! Make a tray of tenders and let everyone build their own for a fun party spread.

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Want More Sandwich Ideas?

If you love these South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches, check out these other crave-worthy creations:

• Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese Sandwich for a melty, smoky masterpiece.
• Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread packed with beef, peppers, and gooey cheese.
• Cheesy Beef Chimichangas for a crispy, cheesy Tex-Mex favorite.
• Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo if you’re craving something rich and saucy.
• Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders to pair with even more dipping fun.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this sandwich recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can make it again anytime.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try adding hot sauce or extra cheese? Did you swap in grilled chicken?

I love hearing your twists on these recipes. Feel free to ask questions too—let’s help each other make them even better!

For more daily recipe inspiration, follow me on Pinterest at Life with Jam.

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