Crack Chicken Tenders

These Crack Chicken Tenders are juicy, flavorful, and irresistible! Made with a combination of cream cheese, ranch seasoning, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese, they’re baked to perfection with a crispy coating. Simple, quick, and perfect for kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 pounds (700g) chicken tenders (or chicken breast cut into strips)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating:

• 4 ounces (115g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or 1 packet of dry ranch seasoning mix + 2 tablespoons milk)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 5 strips)

For the Crunchy Topping:

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for a crispy texture)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray.

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Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
2. Season them with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Crack Coating

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon until evenly combined.

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Step 4: Coat the Chicken

1. Spread a generous layer of the crack coating over each chicken tender. Use a spoon or your hands to press the mixture firmly so it sticks to the chicken.
2. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.

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Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), and olive oil.
2. Sprinkle the crunchy topping over the chicken tenders, pressing gently to help it stick.

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Step 6: Bake the Chicken

• Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
• The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.

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Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool for 2-3 minutes.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or spicy mayo.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color (optional).

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Tips for Success

• Even Coating: Use your hands or a spatula to evenly spread the cream cheese mixture onto the chicken tenders.
• Crispier Finish: For an extra-crispy topping, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
• Bacon Tips: Pre-cook the bacon until crispy for the best texture. You can use store-bought bacon bits if you’re short on time.
• Ranch Flavor: If you don’t have ranch dressing, mix 1 packet of ranch seasoning with 2 tablespoons of milk or mayonnaise.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your Crack Chicken Tenders with:

• Roasted veggies like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots
• A fresh green salad with ranch dressing
• Mashed cauliflower or baked potatoes
• Crispy sweet potato fries for a fun side dish

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or air fry for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
• Freeze: Place uncooked, coated chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F for 25-30 minutes.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick: Minimal prep time makes it perfect for busy nights.
• Irresistible Flavor: Creamy ranch, crispy bacon, and cheesy goodness in every bite.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will devour these tenders!
• Customizable: Add a little kick with cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you like some spice.

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Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Protein: ~28g
• Carbs: ~6g
• Fat: ~20g

Note: Nutrition may vary based on portion size and exact ingredients used.

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Conclusion

These Crack Chicken Tenders are a surefire hit for any meal or gathering. With their crispy coating, creamy center, and incredible flavor, they’ll become a favorite in no time. Whether you serve them as a main dish, appetizer, or snack, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast!

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