Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

Introduction

Crack Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights. With a creamy ranch and cheese topping paired with crispy bacon, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs chicken tenders
• 6 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ cup cooked bacon bits
• 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and well blended.
3. Step 3: Arrange the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly coat each tender with olive oil or cooking spray to keep them moist.
4. Step 4: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken tender using a spoon.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon bits over the cream cheese layer.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the topping is golden and bubbly.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2 minutes of baking—watch carefully to avoid burning.
• Substitute cooked sausage for bacon bits for a different flavor.
• Use Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a milder taste.
• Make it spicier by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream cheese mixture.

Storage

Store leftover crack chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken tenders for even cooking. If using frozen, thaw them completely before preparing.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your ranch seasoning mix does not contain gluten. Always check the label to be sure.

Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 110 reviews

• Author: Sarah
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Crack Chicken Tenders are a deliciously creamy and cheesy baked chicken dish featuring tender chicken strips smothered in a flavorful ranch cream cheese mixture, topped with crispy bacon bits and melted cheddar cheese. Perfectly baked to juicy perfection and garnished with fresh green onions, this comfort food favorite is quick to prepare and sure to satisfy.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 1.5 lbs chicken tenders

Seasoning and Cheese Mixture

• 6 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ cup cooked bacon bits

Additional Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
2. Make Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning packet, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until smooth and evenly blended.
3. Prep Chicken: Arrange the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly coat each tender with olive oil or cooking spray to help keep the chicken moist and ensure golden browning.
4. Spread Mixture: Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken tender, spreading it out to cover the surface well.
5. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon bits generously over the top of the coated chicken tenders.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the topping is golden and bubbly.
7. Garnish: Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped green onions over the chicken for a fresh, mild onion flavor. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

• You can substitute cooked bacon bits with cooked, crumbled turkey bacon or omit for a lower-fat option.
• Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer.
• For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
• This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Crack Chicken Tenders, Baked Chicken, Ranch Chicken, Cheesy Chicken, Bacon Chicken Tenders, Easy Chicken Recipe