ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare the chicken tenders by patting them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps them crisp up nicely when baked.
Next, place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with cooking spray. Brush each tender with a small amount of olive oil to ensure they crisp up perfectly during baking. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Make the Crack Chicken Coating
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined. If you’re adding bacon, fold the crumbled bacon into the mixture for that extra layer of savory goodness.
This mixture will create a creamy, cheesy coating that’s packed with flavor. The ranch seasoning adds a zesty, herby note, while the cream cheese and cheddar bring richness and a bit of tang. The bacon adds a smoky crunch, but feel free to skip it if you prefer a simpler version.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Using a spoon or spatula, generously spread the cream cheese mixture over each chicken tender. Make sure each piece is evenly coated, creating a thick layer of cheesy goodness. You can press down lightly to help the coating stick if necessary.
Step 4: Bake the Tenders
Place the baking sheet with the coated chicken tenders into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and bubbly. For extra crispy tenders, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just be sure to keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once your Crack Chicken Tenders are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Serve the tenders with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick. They’re perfect for pairing with a side of fries, a crisp salad, or even mashed potatoes.
Tips for the Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders
- Customize the cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
- Crispier tenders: If you want an even crispier texture, consider breading the chicken tenders with breadcrumbs before baking. You can also add a light sprinkle of parmesan on top before baking for an extra golden crust.
- Add veggies: For a more balanced meal, serve your tenders with steamed veggies or a side salad. You can even mix in some chopped spinach or bell peppers into the cream cheese mixture for a veggie-packed twist.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the cream cheese mixture in advance. Simply cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake, making it a perfect meal prep option.
Why You’ll Love Crack Chicken Tenders
There’s a reason Crack Chicken Tenders are so popular. They’re the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory, with just the right amount of crunch from the bacon and crisp edges. Each bite is a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. These tenders are also incredibly versatile, making them great for dinner, appetizers, or even game day snacks.
Thanks to the easy preparation and minimal ingredients, Crack Chicken Tenders are a great option for busy weeknights or when you need to impress guests with minimal effort. Plus, the leftovers (if you have any!) make for a delicious lunch the next day.
A Dish Worth Craving
Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal, a dish to serve at a party, or a comforting snack, Crack Chicken Tenders have you covered. The cheesy, creamy coating and the tender chicken make this recipe an instant favorite. It’s the kind of comfort food you’ll make again and again, and it’s sure to satisfy your cravings every time. Get ready to indulge in a dish that’s as addictively delicious as it is easy to make!
ADVERTISEMENT
