Description
Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor! Coated in ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and crunchy bacon, these tenders are perfect for a family dinner, game day, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Bake, fry, or air-fry them for a deliciously addictive meal.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Cooking oil (for frying or baking)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare – If baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Filling – In a bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and ranch seasoning.
- Coat the Chicken – Flatten the chicken tenders slightly, then spread the cheese mixture over each piece.
- Set Up Breading Station – Prepare three bowls: one with flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; one with beaten eggs; and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Tenders – Dip each chicken tender in flour, then egg, then panko mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Cook the Chicken:
- For Frying: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook tenders for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- For Baking: Place tenders on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve – Let cool slightly and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture for extra heat.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour instead of regular flour and crushed pork rinds instead of panko.
- Different Cheese: Try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a flavor twist.
