Description
Crack Chicken Tenders are the ultimate indulgent comfort food—crispy, juicy chicken tenders coated in a flavor-packed blend of creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning. This recipe takes ordinary chicken tenders to the next level with a rich, savory coating that “cracks” you right from the first bite. They’re oven-baked or air-fried to golden perfection and served hot for a meal or snack that disappears fast.
Ingredients
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1 lb (about 16 oz) chicken tenders
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
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1 packet ranch seasoning mix
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2 large eggs
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1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Cooking spray or oil (for baking or air frying)
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your air fryer. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
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In a bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, bacon pieces, and ranch seasoning until well combined.
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Season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
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Spread the cream cheese mixture onto each tender, pressing lightly to adhere.
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Beat eggs in a shallow bowl. Place breadcrumbs in another.
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Dip each coated tender into the egg, then into the breadcrumbs, pressing to coat fully.
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Place the tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking oil.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes or air fry for 10–12 minutes until golden and cooked through.
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Let rest for a few minutes before serving hot.
Notes
Let cream cheese soften for easier mixing.
Use pre-cooked bacon for quicker prep.
Press coating gently but firmly onto the chicken to help it stick.
Don’t overcrowd the pan or air fryer for even cooking.
Flip halfway through baking for extra crunch on both sides.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes (baking) or 10–12 minutes (air frying)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked or Air Fried
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Crack Chicken Tenders, cheesy chicken tenders, bacon ranch chicken, crispy chicken tenders, easy chicken recipe, comfort food