Golden Crack Chicken Tenders with dipping sauces.

Crack Chicken Tenders

by

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crack Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food that combines crispy, juicy chicken with a creamy, cheesy coating infused with ranch seasoning and crispy bacon bits. Perfectly seasoned and packed with flavor, these tenders are a surefire hit for family dinners, game day snacks, or a quick meal prep option. Their irresistible taste, combined with the ease of preparation, makes them a favorite among both adults and kids.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

  • For the Chicken Tenders:
    • 1.5 pounds of chicken tenders
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 2 large eggs (beaten)
    • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Coating:
    • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    • 1/4 cup crumbled bacon bits (cooked and drained)
    • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
  • For Frying (optional):
    • Vegetable oil or cooking spray for baking

Directions

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C) for frying.
    • Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
  2. Set Up Your Coating Station:
    • In one bowl, place the flour.
    • In the second bowl, beat the eggs.
    • In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat the Chicken:
    • Dredge each chicken tender in flour, shaking off the excess.
    • Dip the floured chicken tender into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
    • Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s well-coated.
  4. Add the Crack Coating:
    • Mix the shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and ranch seasoning in a small bowl.
    • Sprinkle the crack coating mixture over each breaded tender, pressing lightly to adhere.
  5. Cook the Chicken Tenders:
    • For frying: Carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
    • For baking: Place the chicken tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking spray and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
  6. Serve:
    • Remove the chicken tenders from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4-6 (depending on portion size)
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes (baking) or 8-10 minutes (frying)
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy twist.
  • Low-Carb Option: Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour and crushed pork rinds for breadcrumbs.
  • Air Fryer Method: Cook the tenders in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
  • Dipping Sauce Ideas: Pair with ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or spicy aioli for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating

  • Storage:
    • Refrigerate leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
    • For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating:
    • Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 8-10 minutes to regain crispiness.
    • Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

FAQs

  1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
    • Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips to make your own tenders.
  2. What’s the best way to ensure the coating sticks?
    • Make sure to pat the chicken dry and press the coating mixture firmly onto each piece.
  3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
    • Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
  4. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
    • Yes! The cheesy, bacon-packed flavor is a hit with kids. You can skip the paprika for a milder version.
  5. Can I prep the tenders in advance?
    • Yes, you can bread the tenders and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Tenders are a flavor-packed dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, the combination of crispy chicken, ranch seasoning, cheese, and bacon creates a meal that everyone will crave. Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or party appetizers, these tenders will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Try them today and savor the irresistible blend of savory and cheesy goodness!

To enhance your culinary journey with Crack Chicken Tenders, explore these complementary recipes and dishes from Only Italian Recipes:

These ideas not only complement Crack Chicken Tenders but also create a diverse, satisfying meal experience.

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Golden Crack Chicken Tenders with dipping sauces.

Crack Chicken Tenders

  • Author: Meryem
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
Print Recipe

Description

Crack Chicken Tenders are a delightful combination of crispy, juicy chicken coated with cheesy ranch flavors and savory bacon bits. Whether baked or fried, these tenders are an irresistible treat perfect for dinner, appetizers, or even game-day snacks. Easy to prepare, they’re guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 1.5 pounds chicken tenders
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Crack Coating:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon bits
  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix

Optional for Cooking:

  • Vegetable oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking)

Instructions

  • Prep the Ingredients:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or heat 2 inches of oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C) for frying.
    • Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
  • Prepare the Breading Station:
    • Place flour in one bowl.
    • Beat the eggs in a second bowl.
    • In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Bread the Chicken:
    • Coat each chicken tender in flour, shaking off excess.
    • Dip into beaten eggs, ensuring even coverage.
    • Roll in the breadcrumb mixture until well-coated.
  • Add the Crack Coating:
    • In a small bowl, mix cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and ranch seasoning.
    • Press the crack coating mixture onto each breaded tender.
  • Cook the Tenders:
    • To Fry: Carefully fry the tenders in hot oil for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
    • To Bake: Place tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Serve and Enjoy:
    • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

( Nutrition may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.)

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4-6
  • Calories: ~320
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg