Go Back
–+ servings
Crack Chicken Tenders

Crack Chicken Tenders - Irresistibly Crispy & Creamy Delight

These Crack Chicken Tenders are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser with their crispy exteriors and creamy, cheesy goodness.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 tenders
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Chicken Tenders Use fresh or thawed chicken for the best flavor and texture.
For the Creamy Mixture
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix Feel free to create your own homemade seasoning.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for a more robust flavor.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Swap with finely chopped onions for a fresher taste.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Substitute with pepper jack or mozzarella to change things up.
  • 1 cup Cooked Bacon Bits Try turkey bacon or a plant-based option for a lighter choice.
For Cooking
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil/Cooking Spray Any high-heat oil will work as a substitute.
Optional Garnish
  • 2 tbsp Chopped Green Onions Can be omitted or replaced with chives.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
  3. Place the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly, and lightly coat each tender with olive oil or cooking spray.
  4. Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over each chicken tender.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon bits over the top of each coated chicken tender.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Remove from the oven, let cool for a couple of minutes, and optionally garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tenderCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 200mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg

Notes

These tenders are perfect for a quick dinner, game night, or party. Make-ahead and freezing tips are included for convenience.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!