Go Back
–+ servings
Crack Chicken Tenders

Crack Chicken Tenders: Cheesy Comfort for Busy Nights

Delicious Crack Chicken Tenders with creamy cheese, ranch, and crispy bacon, perfect for busy nights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 tenders
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tenders
  • 1.5 lbs Chicken Tenders Feel free to use turkey tenders for a lighter option.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil or Cooking Spray Avocado oil works great for a higher smoke point.
For the Creamy Mixture
  • 6 oz Cream Cheese A light cream cheese can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 packet (1 oz) Ranch Seasoning Mix Consider making a homemade mix.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Minced fresh garlic can be used for a more vibrant taste.
  • 0.5 tsp Onion Powder Fresh onion is a great alternative.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (divided) Substitute with pepper jack or mozzarella for a twist.
For the Crunchy Topping
  • 0.5 cup Cooked Bacon Bits Plant-based bacon can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 tbsp Chopped Green Onions (optional) Offers a pop of color and freshness.

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth and creamy. Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
  3. Lay chicken tenders on the baking sheet and lightly coat with olive oil or cooking spray.
  4. Spread the creamy mixture over each tender, ensuring it is coated evenly.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and bacon bits over each tender.
  6. Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly, and the thickest part of the chicken reads 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer.
  7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tenderCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For optimal crispy texture, do not overcrowd the baking sheet and consider reheating in an air fryer or oven.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!