BEST CRACK CHICKEN TENDERS EVER

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 1.5 lbs chicken tenders
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the “Crack” Topping:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Let’s Talk Chicken Tender Prep!

Before we dive into the “crack” part, let’s make sure our chicken tenders are prepped perfectly. This is where the magic really starts. Don’t skip on patting the chicken dry; it makes a HUGE difference in how well the breading sticks. Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Getting Started: Prep the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze!
2. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better.

Breading Station Time!

1. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. In a second shallow dish, place the beaten eggs.
3. In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
4. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken for maximum coverage.
5. Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.

Baking to Golden Perfection

1. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!

Whipping Up the “Crack” Topping

1. While the chicken is baking, prepare the topping. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, green onions, garlic powder, and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.

The Grand Finale: Topping and Broiling

1. Once the chicken tenders are cooked, remove them from the oven.
2. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken tender. Don’t be shy!
3. Place the baking sheet back in the oven and broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning!

Serve and Devour!

1. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra green onions, if desired.

Baking vs. Frying: Which is Best?

I get asked this all the time! Baking these Crack Chicken Tenders is definitely the healthier option, and honestly, with the panko breadcrumbs, they get surprisingly crispy. However, if you’re really craving that deep-fried goodness, you can certainly fry them. Just make sure your oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C) and fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Just be prepared for a little more mess and cleanup!

Tips for the Crispiest Chicken Tenders

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Make sure to leave some space between the chicken tenders on the baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate properly and helps them get crispy.
• Panko is key: Regular breadcrumbs just don’t give you the same level of crunch. Panko breadcrumbs are larger and flakier, resulting in a much crispier coating.
• Don’t skip the broil: The broiling step is what really melts the cheese and gives it that bubbly, irresistible look. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Variations to Make It Your Own

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s super adaptable. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for a little kick.
• Different cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack would be amazing for a spicy version.
• Add veggies: Stir in some diced tomatoes or bell peppers into the cream cheese mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
• Make it a meal: Serve these Crack Chicken Tenders over rice or pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Try different seasonings: You can change the flavor profile by using Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or even taco seasoning in the breading.

Serving Suggestions and What to Pair With

These Crack Chicken Tenders are amazing on their own, but they’re even better when paired with the right sides. Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:

• Classic sides: French fries, coleslaw, and potato salad are always a hit.
• Healthy options: Serve with a side of steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
• Dipping sauces: Ranch dressing, honey mustard, and BBQ sauce are all great options.
• Party platter: Arrange the Crack Chicken Tenders on a platter with an assortment of dipping sauces and veggies for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can! You can prepare the breaded chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to bake them when you’re ready to serve. You can also prepare the cream cheese topping ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, I recommend waiting to assemble the chicken tenders until just before baking for the best results.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which I highly doubt!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they won’t be as crispy. For extra crispy results, try reheating them in an air fryer!

Other Chicken Recipes You’ll Love!

If you’re a chicken lover like me, you’re always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes. Here are a few other chicken recipes that I think you’ll enjoy:

• For a sweet and savory kick, you have to try my Sticky Honey Bbq Chicken!
• Looking for something savory and tangy? Check out the Hot Honey Feta Chicken.
• Craving some Asian-inspired cuisine? Try General Tso’s Chicken.
• If you are seeking a delicious and simple way to enjoy chicken, look no further than Baked Chicken.
• And, for an easy weeknight dinner, Chicken Thighs Dinner Recipe is the perfect choice.
• You may also enjoy my Pretzel Chicken With Mustard-cheddar Sauce, another family favorite!

Final Thoughts: Get Ready to Be Addicted!

These Crack Chicken Tenders are seriously addictive, and I’m not kidding! Once you try them, you’ll be hooked. They’re perfect for parties, game nights, or just a fun and easy weeknight dinner. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to make the best chicken tenders you’ve ever had. Enjoy!

BEST CRACK CHICKEN TENDERS EVER

These Crack Chicken Tenders are incredibly addictive, featuring crispy panko-breaded chicken topped with a creamy, cheesy, and bacon-filled mixture. They’re perfect for parties, game nights, or a fun and easy weeknight dinner that everyone will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 22 minutes mins

Total Time 42 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs chicken tenders
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

• baking sheet
• parchment paper
• Shallow dishes (3)
• Medium bowl
• Whisk or mixing spoon
• measuring cups and spoons
• Oven
• Meat thermometer (optional)

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
3. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. In a second shallow dish, place the beaten eggs.
5. In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
6. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken for maximum coverage.
7. Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
9. While the chicken is baking, prepare the topping. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, green onions, garlic powder, and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
10. Once the chicken tenders are cooked, remove them from the oven.
11. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken tender.
12. Place the baking sheet back in the oven and broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning!
13. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra green onions, if desired.

Notes

For extra crispy chicken, ensure the chicken tenders are dry before breading and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Broiling is key to melting the cheese. You can prepare the breaded chicken tenders and the cream cheese topping ahead of time, but assemble just before baking. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven, microwave, or air fryer. For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add diced tomatoes or bell peppers to the topping.