Description
Crack Chicken Tenders are a crispy and juicy dish, packed with the irresistible flavors of ranch seasoning, cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon. Perfect for dinner, these tenders are easy to prepare, highly addictive, and ideal for serving as a main course or appetizer. Their crunchy exterior and creamy topping make them a family favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
1 pound chicken tenders
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs (beaten)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 strips bacon (cooked and crumbled)
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat oil to 350°F (175°C) for frying.
Create a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.Bread the Tenders:Dredge each chicken tender in flour, dip it in the egg, and coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Place the tenders on a baking sheet.Cook the Tenders:For baking: Arrange breaded tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking oil, and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.For frying: Fry the tenders in hot oil for 4–5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Prepare the Topping:
In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
Top and Serve:
Spread the topping over each tender, sprinkle with crumbled bacon, and garnish with green onions. Optionally, broil for 1–2 minutes to melt the cheese. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes.
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–6
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g