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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

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.
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.
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.
Spread Mixture: Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken tender, spreading it out to cover the surface well.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon bits generously over the top of the coated chicken tenders.
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.
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