Why Make This Recipe
Crack Chicken Tenders are a delicious twist on a classic favorite. With crispy breadcrumbs, savory bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese, these tenders are sure to please everyone at your table. They are easy to make and perfect for a family dinner, a game day snack, or even a cozy night in. What’s better? They bake in the oven, giving you a healthier option without sacrificing any flavor.
How To Make Crack Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or oil
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease it.
- In one bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, paprika, and some salt and pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed.
- Take each chicken tender and dip it in the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated.
- Next, coat the chicken tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly so the breadcrumbs stick well.
- Place the coated tenders on the baking sheet.
- Top each tender with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should be 165°F or 74°C).
- Serve immediately with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.
How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders
These chicken tenders are great served right out of the oven. Pair them with ranch dressing for dipping, or try them with barbecue sauce for a sweet and smoky taste. You can also serve them alongside crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Crack Chicken Tenders
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This will help keep them crispy.
Tips to Make Crack Chicken Tenders
- For extra crunch, double dip the chicken by going back from the egg to the breadcrumbs before placing them on the baking sheet.
- Experiment with different cheese options like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a mild flavor.
- You can add chopped herbs like parsley or oregano to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
Variation
Try using turkey tenders instead of chicken for a lighter option. You can also replace the ranch dressing mix with a different seasoning blend like taco seasoning for a fun twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken tenders, coat them, and then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze the uncooked tenders?
Absolutely! You can freeze the coated tenders on the baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
3. What can I use instead of ranch dressing mix?
You can make your own mix using equal parts dried herbs and spices like dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley. Just adjust to your taste!
