Crack Chicken Tenders

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crack Chicken Tenders are irresistibly crispy, cheesy, and packed with bold ranch flavor. Coated in a crunchy mixture of bacon, cheese, and ranch-seasoned breadcrumbs, these tenders are baked or air-fried to golden perfection. Perfect for dinner, game day, or a snack, they’re sure to become a family favorite thanks to their addictive taste and easy prep.

ingredients

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

chicken tenders or chicken breast stripscream cheese (softened)ranch seasoning mixshredded cheddar cheesecooked crumbled baconpanko or regular breadcrumbsparsley (optional for garnish)eggsall-purpose floursaltpeppercooking spray or oil (for baking or air frying)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper.

In a small bowl, mix cream cheese and ranch seasoning until smooth.

Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture over each chicken tender.

In a separate bowl, combine shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and breadcrumbs.

Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and the breadcrumb mixture.

Dredge each coated tender in flour, dip in egg, then press into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.

Place tenders on a greased baking sheet or in the air fryer basket.

Spray tops lightly with cooking spray.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.

Garnish with parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes (oven) or 12-15 minutes (air fryer)
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Use spicy ranch mix or add cayenne pepper for heat.

Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella.

Add crushed cornflakes to the breadcrumb mix for extra crunch.

Serve with ranch or honey mustard dipping sauce.

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free option.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed and crispy.
Avoid microwaving to preserve crunch.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenders?
Yes, just cut them into strips for even cooking.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, bread the tenders and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze breaded uncooked tenders on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

Do I need to use cream cheese?
Cream cheese adds richness and helps the coating stick, but you can skip it for a lighter version.

What dipping sauces go best with these?
Ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or buffalo sauce are all great options.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Tenders are a crave-worthy, crispy delight loaded with flavor and texture. Whether baked or air-fried, they deliver a perfect bite every time with melty cheese, smoky bacon, and tangy ranch. Serve them for dinner, parties, or anytime you’re in the mood for something truly irresistible.

Print