ULTIMATE CRACK CHICKEN TENDERS

I’ll never forget the potluck where my friend Sarah brought a dish that vanished in minutes, leaving everyone begging for the recipe; it turned out to be her famous Crack Chicken Tenders, and from that moment on, I was hooked. These aren’t just any chicken tenders; they’re an explosion of flavor that’s incredibly addictive, and I’m so excited to share my version with you. Get ready to experience a taste sensation that will have everyone asking for more – trust me, these Crack Chicken Tenders will be a new family favorite!

Why You’ll Absolutely LOVE These Crack Chicken Tenders

Okay, let’s be real: there are a million and one chicken tender recipes out there. So, what makes these Crack Chicken Tenders so special? Well, several things, actually! First and foremost, it’s the FLAVOR. We’re talking a creamy, cheesy, bacony, ranch-infused explosion that will send your taste buds into overdrive. Seriously, the name isn’t kidding – these are truly addictive!

But it’s not just the taste; it’s the versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a fun snack for game day, these tenders fit the bill perfectly. Plus, you can adapt the recipe to suit your preferences. Want to add a little kick? Throw in some jalapenos. Prefer a different cheese? Go for it! The possibilities are endless.

And let’s not forget about the kid-friendly factor. Even the pickiest eaters will devour these tenders. They’re crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with familiar flavors that kids love. It’s a win-win for everyone!

What Makes These Tenders “Crack”? (The Secret Ingredients)

Alright, let’s dive into the magic behind these irresistible Crack Chicken Tenders. The key is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors. Here’s a breakdown of the star ingredients:

• Chicken Tenders: Obviously! I prefer using fresh, high-quality chicken tenders for the best flavor and texture. You can also use chicken breasts cut into strips.
• Cream Cheese: This is the foundation of the creamy, dreamy sauce. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Ranch Dressing Mix: This adds that signature tangy flavor that ties everything together. Use a good quality ranch dressing mix – it makes a difference!
• Cheddar Cheese: Because cheese makes everything better, right? I recommend using sharp cheddar cheese for a bolder flavor, but mild cheddar works well too.
• Bacon: Crispy, smoky bacon is the pièce de résistance. Use real bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled. You can also use bacon bits in a pinch, but the real thing is always better.
• Green Onions: These add a fresh, slightly pungent flavor that balances out the richness of the other ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a complete list of everything you’ll need to make these amazing Crack Chicken Tenders:

• 1.5 lbs Chicken Tenders
• 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
• 1 packet Ranch Dressing Mix
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• 1/2 cup Cooked and Crumbled Bacon
• 1/4 cup Chopped Green Onions
• 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• 2 Eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs
• Cooking Spray

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crack Chicken Tender Perfection

Okay, let’s get cooking! Here’s a detailed guide to making the best Crack Chicken Tenders you’ve ever tasted:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First, pat your chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a nice, crispy coating. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a separate shallow dish, beat the eggs. In a third shallow dish, place the panko bread crumbs.

Step 2: Create the Crack Chicken Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing mix, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. This is the “crack” part of the Crack Chicken Tenders!

Step 3: Assemble the Tenders

Now comes the fun part! Take each chicken tender and dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it completely. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat it in the panko bread crumbs, pressing gently to help them adhere.

Once the chicken tender is breaded, take a spoonful of the crack chicken mixture and spread it evenly over the top of the tender. Don’t be shy! You want a good layer of that deliciousness.

Step 4: Bake or Air Fry

Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Place the prepared tenders on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.

Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the prepared tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to work in batches). Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. Be sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the tenders are cooked, let them cool slightly before serving. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

Tips and Tricks for the Best Crack Chicken Tenders Ever

Want to take your Crack Chicken Tenders to the next level? Here are some of my best tips and tricks:

• Don’t skip the drying step: Patting the chicken tenders dry with paper towels is crucial for getting a crispy coating. Excess moisture will prevent the breading from adhering properly.
• Use softened cream cheese: Softened cream cheese is much easier to mix with the other ingredients. If you forget to take it out of the fridge ahead of time, you can microwave it for a few seconds to soften it up.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer: Overcrowding will prevent the tenders from cooking evenly and getting crispy. Work in batches if necessary.
• Use a meat thermometer: The best way to ensure that your chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Get creative with the toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as jalapenos, different cheeses, or even crumbled potato chips.

Variations: Spice It Up, Cheese It Up, Change It Up!

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations to try:

• Spicy Crack Chicken Tenders: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapenos to the crack chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Crack Chicken Tenders: Use a blend of different cheeses, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack, for an extra cheesy experience.
• Ranch-Free Crack Chicken Tenders: If you’re not a fan of ranch dressing, you can substitute it with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt. Add some extra herbs and spices, such as dill, parsley, and garlic powder, to compensate for the flavor.
• Crack Chicken Tender Bites: Cut the chicken tenders into smaller pieces before breading and baking for easy-to-eat bite-sized snacks.

Serving Suggestions: What to Serve With Your Crack Chicken Tenders

These Crack Chicken Tenders are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when served with some tasty sides. Here are a few of my favorite pairings:

• Dipping Sauces: Ranch dressing, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, or your favorite homemade dip.
• Salads: A simple green salad, coleslaw, or potato salad.
• Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or corn on the cob.
• Fries: Classic french fries, sweet potato fries, or curly fries.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage: Store leftover Crack Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat the tenders in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but they may become a little soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but make sure to thaw them completely before using. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tenders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking or air frying. Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze these?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked Crack Chicken Tenders. Let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer until heated through.

What if my cream cheese is not softening fast enough?

You can microwave the cream cheese for 15-20 seconds, but watch it carefully to ensure it doesn’t melt completely. You want it softened, not liquid.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits to save time. However, freshly cooked and crumbled bacon will provide the best flavor.

More Delicious Chicken Recipes to Explore

If you loved these Crack Chicken Tenders, you’re going to adore these other chicken recipes:

• Craving a comforting casserole? Try this Chicken Casserole Recipe.
• Looking for a simple yet satisfying dinner? This Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake is a winner.
• Want something fun and flavorful? These Mozzarella Ranch Chicken Bombs are a crowd-pleaser.
• Need a hands-off meal? This Ranch Chicken Crock Pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• For a crispy and savory option, you can’t go wrong with this Crispy Parmesan Chicken recipe. The Crispy Parmesan Chicken recipe will become a favorite in your rotation.

Get Ready to Be Addicted!

So there you have it – my ultimate recipe for Crack Chicken Tenders. I promise you, these are not your average chicken tenders. They’re packed with flavor, easy to make, and incredibly addictive. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a snack, or a main course, they’re sure to be a hit. So go ahead, give them a try and get ready to be hooked!

ULTIMATE CRACK CHICKEN TENDERS

These Crack Chicken Tenders are an explosion of creamy, cheesy, bacony, ranch-infused flavor that’s incredibly addictive. Easy to prepare and versatile, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a fun snack. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, even the pickiest eaters will devour these tenders!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs Chicken Tenders
• 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
• 1 packet Ranch Dressing Mix
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• 1/2 cup Cooked and Crumbled Bacon
• 1/4 cup Chopped Green Onions
• 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• 2 Eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs
• Cooking Spray

Equipment

• baking sheet
• parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Air fryer (optional)
• Shallow dishes (3)
• Large bowl
• mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons
• paper towels
• whisk
• spoon or spatula
• Meat thermometer (optional)

Method

 

1. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate shallow dish, beat the eggs.
4. In a third shallow dish, place the panko bread crumbs.
5. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing mix, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
6. Take each chicken tender and dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it completely.
7. Dip the floured tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
8. Coat the egged tender in the panko bread crumbs, pressing gently to help them adhere.
9. Once the chicken tender is breaded, take a spoonful of the crack chicken mixture and spread it evenly over the top of the tender.
10. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
11. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat if baking.
12. Place the prepared tenders on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one, or in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
13. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray.
14. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. If air frying, air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
15. Let the tenders cool slightly before serving.
16. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

Patting the chicken tenders dry is crucial for getting a crispy coating. Use softened cream cheese for easy mixing. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Experiment with different toppings, such as jalapenos or different cheeses. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. Spicy variation: Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapenos. Cheesy variation: Use a blend of mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack. Ranch-free variation: Substitute ranch with sour cream or Greek yogurt and add dill, parsley, and garlic powder. Crack Chicken Tender Bites: Cut tenders into smaller pieces before breading.