Crack Chicken Tenders

Short Description

Crack Chicken Tenders are irresistibly crispy, juicy chicken strips coated in a flavorful ranch-seasoned, cheesy breading and baked or fried to golden perfection. With a combination of cheddar cheese, bacon, and ranch seasoning, these addictive tenders are perfect for family dinners, game-day snacks, or a quick and easy meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor
• Made with simple ingredients in under 30 minutes
• Kid-friendly and great for meal prep
• Can be baked, fried, or air-fried for different textures
• Pairs perfectly with dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken tenders
• Ranch seasoning mix
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Eggs
• Panko breadcrumbs (or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb option)
• Flour
• Garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper
• Cooking oil (for frying or spraying if baking/air-frying)

Directions

1. Prepare the Breading Station

• In one bowl, whisk eggs.
• In a second bowl, mix flour, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar, and crumbled bacon.

2. Coat the Chicken

• Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture.
• Dip into the egg wash.
• Coat thoroughly in the cheese-breadcrumb mixture.

3. Cook the Tenders

Oven Method:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Place tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet and spray lightly with oil.
• Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.

Air Fryer Method:

• Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Arrange tenders in a single layer and air-fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frying Method:

• Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
• Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

4. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve warm with ranch, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg wash.
• Keto/Low-Carb: Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
• Extra Cheesy: Sprinkle more shredded cheddar before baking.
• Buffalo Ranch: Toss cooked tenders in buffalo sauce before serving.
• Gluten-Free: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or air-fry at 375°F for 3-4 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked, breaded tenders for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes! Slice chicken breasts into strips for the same effect.

How do I make these extra crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs and spray with oil before baking.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon bits?

Yes, but fresh-cooked and crumbled bacon gives the best flavor.

Do I have to use cheddar cheese?

No! Try mozzarella, parmesan, or pepper jack for different flavors.

Can I use ranch dressing instead of seasoning?

No, ranch seasoning is needed for the crispy coating.

What dipping sauces pair well with this?

Ranch, honey mustard, buffalo sauce, or garlic aioli all work great.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Press the coating firmly onto the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before cooking.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Bread the tenders in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work best for frying.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy, cheesy, and packed with ranch and bacon flavor, making them a guaranteed hit. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, they’re an easy and delicious meal or snack. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy every bite!

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