Crack Chicken Tenders are a mouthwatering, savory dish that combines the creamy richness of cream cheese, the sharpness of cheddar, and the salty crunch of bacon—all packed into tender chicken. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or a party appetizer. With minimal prep time and a short bake time, these tenders are sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken tenders
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1/4 cup sliced green onions

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions. Mix until well combined.
Coat the Chicken: Coat each chicken tender with the cheesy ranch mixture, ensuring the chicken is fully covered.
Bake: Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Serve hot and enjoy these irresistible, creamy, cheesy tenders!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add More Cheese: For extra cheesy tenders, sprinkle more shredded cheddar or even mozzarella on top of the chicken before baking.
Spicy Version: Add some heat by mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or jalapeños with the cream cheese mixture.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian take on the recipe. Ensure the tofu or tempeh is well-seasoned and coated in the cheesy mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Crack Chicken Tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. For a quicker option, you can reheat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

10 FAQs

Can I use boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of tenders? Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but make sure to cut them into smaller strips for even cooking.
Can I make these in advance? Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
Can I make these without bacon? Yes, you can omit the bacon or replace it with a vegetarian alternative like crumbled tempeh or a meatless bacon substitute.
Can I use ranch dressing instead of the seasoning mix? It’s best to use the dry ranch seasoning for the right consistency. However, you can experiment with a small amount of ranch dressing if desired.
Can I make this recipe in an air fryer? Yes, you can cook the tenders in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are cooked through.
What can I serve with these chicken tenders? These tenders are great with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I freeze leftover tenders? Yes, you can freeze the tenders after they’ve been baked. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, then store in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Can I add other toppings to these tenders? Yes! Try topping them with extra green onions, a drizzle of ranch dressing, or a sprinkle of Parmesan for added flavor.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese or cheese? Yes, you can substitute with low-fat cream cheese or cheese, though the tenders may not be as creamy or rich as the full-fat version.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Tenders are a creamy, cheesy, and irresistible dish that’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion. With the combination of ranch seasoning, cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon, these tenders are bursting with flavor. Whether served as a main dish, appetizer, or party snack, these tenders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!