Crack Chicken Tenders
Crack Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and crave-worthy twist on traditional chicken tenders. Juicy chicken strips are coated in a rich blend of cream cheese, cheddar, ranch seasoning, and crispy bacon, then baked or air-fried to golden perfection. Easy to make and even easier to love, these tenders are perfect for weeknight dinners, party platters, or satisfying snacks.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or fork
- Baking sheet or air fryer
- Parchment paper or nonstick spray
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Tongs (for handling the chicken)
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (or set air fryer to 375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with nonstick spray
- Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, and ranch seasoning. Mix well.
- Dip chicken strips into beaten eggs, then coat generously with the cheese mixture.
- Press into breadcrumbs or crushed crackers to coat thoroughly.
- Place chicken on baking sheet or in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or air fry for 15–20 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
- Garnish with parsley or green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- Cream cheese tip: Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier mixing and spreading.
- Chicken options: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness, or chicken breasts for a leaner version.
- Breadcrumb alternatives: Crushed Ritz crackers, cornflakes, or pork rinds work well for different textures and dietary needs.
- Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture for a kick.
- Air fryer timing: Cooking time may vary slightly based on the size of your air fryer and the thickness of the chicken strips. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Meal prep tip: Assemble the tenders ahead of time and store them in the fridge (uncooked) for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze uncooked, coated tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 extra minutes of cook time.
- Serving idea: Great with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, buffalo, or barbecue.