These Crack Chicken Tenders are a creamy, savory, and utterly addictive twist on traditional chicken tenders. Coated in a rich mixture of ranch seasoning, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions, they offer a mouthwatering combination of flavors. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, these tenders are perfect for a family dinner or party snack.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken tenders
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1/4 cup sliced green onions

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions.
Coat each chicken tender in the mixture and place on a baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Cheese: Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor.
Bacon: If you prefer, substitute the crumbled bacon with crispy turkey bacon for a leaner option.
Spice: Add a little heat by incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or jalapeño slices into the mixture.
Vegetables: For added flavor and texture, include finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms in the cream cheese mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken tenders back in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.

10 FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders? Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips to replace chicken tenders, but ensure they are cooked through by checking the internal temperature.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the chicken tenders with the cream cheese mixture and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze these chicken tenders? Yes, you can freeze the chicken tenders after they have been coated with the mixture. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a ziplock bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 30-35 minutes.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream cheese? Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and dairy-free shredded cheese to make this recipe suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
What can I serve with Crack Chicken Tenders? These tenders pair well with a variety of side dishes, including a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Can I use a slow cooker to make these? Yes, you can make these tenders in a slow cooker. Add the coated chicken tenders to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
What if I don’t have ranch seasoning mix? If you don’t have a packet of ranch seasoning mix, you can make your own by combining dried herbs like parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
Can I use fresh bacon instead of pre-cooked? Yes, you can cook fresh bacon and crumble it into the mixture, just be sure it is fully cooked and crispy before adding it.
Can I make this recipe in the air fryer? Yes, you can cook the chicken tenders in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the juices run clear.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Tenders are a rich, flavorful, and indulgent twist on traditional chicken tenders. With creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and a burst of ranch flavor, they’re sure to be a hit at any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a quick dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is easy to prepare and full of delicious, savory goodness.