Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

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

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions.
3. Coat each chicken tender in the mixture and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. 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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. 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.

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