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Close-up of crispy and delicious Crack Chicken Tenders, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.

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.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
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.