Crispy & Juicy Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe for Dinner Magic

Culinary magic happens when you combine crispy chicken tenders with tangy crack seasoning in this irresistible dish.

Weeknight dinners just got a delicious upgrade with these flavor-packed morsels.

Home cooks everywhere will fall in love with the simple yet addictive blend of spices.

The secret lies in the perfect coating that delivers maximum crunch and mouthwatering taste.

Pantry staples transform into an extraordinary meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Quick to prepare and even faster to disappear, these crack chicken tenders promise to become your new go-to recipe.

You won’t be able to resist the savory, crispy goodness that makes this dish truly unforgettable.

Why Crack Chicken Tenders Are Seriously Addictive

• This crack chicken tenders recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
• Prepare and bake in just 25 minutes, offering a speedy meal solution that doesn't compromise on taste or quality.
• Loaded with cheese, bacon, and ranch seasoning, these tenders create an irresistible dish that appeals to both kids and adults, guaranteeing clean plates and happy smiles.
• Easily adaptable for different dietary preferences by switching ingredients, this recipe works great as a main course, party appetizer, or game day snack.

What You’ll Need for Crack Chicken Tenders

Main Ingredients:

Chicken Tenders: Protein-rich base of the dish, lean and quick to cook, boneless and tender meat.

Olive Oil: Helps seasoning stick and adds moisture, choose extra virgin for best flavor.

Ranch Seasoning: Provides tangy and herbal flavor profile, pre-mixed packets work perfectly.

Cheese and Topping Ingredients:

Cheddar Cheese: Sharp flavor that melts beautifully, shredded for even distribution.

Bacon: Adds crispy, salty element, pre-crumbled for convenience.

Green Onions: Fresh garnish with mild onion flavor, adds color and brightness.

Preparation Ingredients:

Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes clean-up easy, optional if greasing baking sheet.

How to Bake or Fry Crack Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Fire Up The Oven

Crank your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or give it a quick spray of cooking oil.

Step 2: Coat The Chicken

• Olive oil
• Ranch seasoning

Massage the seasonings into every inch of the chicken until fully covered.

Step 3: Create A Delicious Layer

Spread the seasoned chicken tenders across the baking sheet, ensuring they’re not overlapping.

Step 4: Add Cheesy Bacon Magic

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Crumbled crispy bacon

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Slide the tray into the oven and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken hits 165°F (75°C) internally and the cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling masterpiece.

Step 6: Garnish And Serve

Shower the tenders with freshly chopped green onions and serve immediately while everything is hot and irresistible.

Tips That Guarantee Crack Chicken Tenders

• Customize Crunch: Swap panko breadcrumbs for extra crispy texture if desired.
• Control Sodium Levels: Use low-sodium ranch seasoning or make your own homemade ranch mix to reduce salt content.
• Temperature Perfect: Let chicken rest 3-5 minutes after baking to ensure juicy, tender meat and prevent dryness.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Replace cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives for lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Meal Prep Magic: Prepare chicken tenders ahead and store in refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating in oven to maintain crispiness.

Keeping Crack Chicken Tenders Crunchy for Leftovers

• Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring they're completely cooled before sealing.
• Restore crispiness by spreading tenders on a baking sheet and warming at 350F for 10-12 minutes, which helps maintain their original texture and prevent sogginess.
• For a quick reheat, place tenders on a microwave-safe plate and warm in 30-second intervals, checking to prevent overcooking and drying out the meat.
• Wrap individual tenders tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag, where they'll keep well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Great Dips and Sides for Crack Chicken Tenders

• Whip up a cool ranch dip using sour cream, ranch seasoning, and a splash of hot sauce for an extra flavor punch that complements the cheesy bacon chicken tenders.
• Create a tangy, crunchy coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light mayo dressing to balance the rich, savory flavors of the chicken tenders.
• Toss together a light mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cheesy bacon chicken.
• Select a hoppy IPA or a crisp pilsner that can stand up to the bold ranch and bacon flavors, refreshing your palate between bites of the tender chicken.

Crack Chicken Tenders Variations to Try

• Low-Carb Keto Version: Replace ranch seasoning with a homemade keto-friendly spice blend using garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs. Use sugar-free bacon and skip the cheese for a stricter ketogenic approach.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap cheddar cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Use turkey bacon or coconut bacon bits to maintain the crispy texture while keeping the recipe dairy-free.
• Spicy Ranch Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the ranch seasoning for an extra kick. Top with diced jalapeños before baking to increase the heat level and create a zesty version of the original recipe.
• Herb-Crusted Transformation: Replace ranch seasoning with a mixture of dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Sprinkle crushed pork rinds or almond flour instead of cheese for a crunchy, low-carb coating.

Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

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4.8 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crack chicken tenders deliver a mouthwatering explosion of flavor that elevates classic comfort food to new heights. Crispy, seasoned coating and creamy ranch-infused chicken create an irresistible dish eager diners will crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 ½ pounds (680 grams) chicken tenders

Dairy and Cheese:

• 1 cup (100 grams) shredded cheddar cheese

Seasoning and Toppings:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
• ½ cup (115 grams) cooked bacon, crumbled
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the culinary workspace by heating the oven to a precise 400F (200C), creating a well-prepared surface with parchment paper or a light coating of grease on the baking sheet.
2. Transform the chicken tenders into a flavor-packed delight by thoroughly massaging them with olive oil and ranch seasoning, ensuring each tender is completely enveloped in the zesty mixture.
3. Artfully arrange the seasoned tenders across the baking sheet, maintaining a strategic single-layer formation to promote even cooking and optimal crispiness.
4. Elevate the flavor profile by generously showering the chicken with a luxurious blanket of shredded cheddar cheese and crispy, crumbled bacon pieces.
5. Slide the adorned baking sheet into the preheated oven, allowing the chicken to roast for 15-20 minutes until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165F (75C) and the cheese melts into a golden, bubbling masterpiece.
6. Complete the culinary journey by adorning the finished dish with a vibrant sprinkle of freshly sliced green onions, then serve immediately while the tenders are piping hot and irresistibly aromatic.

Notes

• Swap ranch seasoning for low-sodium alternatives to reduce salt intake for heart-healthy diets.
• Opt for turkey bacon or plant-based bacon bits to create a lighter, leaner version of the dish.
• Choose lactose-free cheese for individuals with dairy sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious meal.
• Pat chicken tenders dry before seasoning to help the coating adhere better and create a crispier exterior.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 100mg