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Avatar photoDavis Janet

Crack Chicken Tenders

These Crack Chicken Tenders are an easy, oven-baked dinner made with juicy chicken, ranch seasoning, a creamy cheese topping, and crispy bacon. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or casual entertaining, they deliver bold, comforting flavor with minimal prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken tenders
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 oz ranch seasoning mix (dry)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 0.5 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • mixing bowls
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula or spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking sheet.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the chicken tenders with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning over the chicken and toss until evenly coated.
  3. In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
  4. Fold in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled bacon. Reserve the rest for topping.
  5. Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer on the baking sheet. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tender. Bake for 15 minutes.
  6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon. Return to the oven and bake for 5–7 minutes, until the chicken reaches 165°F and the cheese is melted. Garnish with chives and serve.

Notes

You can substitute Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for the sour cream if needed. For meal prep, assemble the tenders up to adding the topping and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days.