Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crack Chicken Tenders are juicy, flavor-packed strips of chicken coated in a cheesy, ranch-seasoned crust with crispy bacon bits. This easy dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or anytime you’re craving something savory and satisfying. With minimal prep and bold flavors, it’s a hit with both kids and adults.

ingredients

Crack Chicken Tenders – Easy Dinner Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken tenderscream cheesecheddar cheeseranch seasoning mixcooked and crumbled baconmayonnaisepanko breadcrumbsolive oil or melted butterparsley (optional for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, mayonnaise, and crumbled bacon.

Spread the cheese mixture over each chicken tender evenly, pressing it slightly so it sticks.

Sprinkle the top of the coated tenders with panko breadcrumbs and drizzle lightly with olive oil or melted butter to help them crisp up.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden and bubbly.

Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 20-25 minutesTotal time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Use crushed pork rinds instead of panko for a low-carb version.

Add a little hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the cheese mix for a spicy kick.

Try mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor twist.

Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Use boneless chicken thighs instead of tenders for a juicier cut.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes to keep the coating crispy.Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the coating soggy.

FAQs

What is “crack chicken”?

“Crack chicken” refers to a combination of chicken, ranch seasoning, cheese, and bacon—so addictive, it’s called “crack” chicken!

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Fresh raw tenders are best, but you can use pre-cooked chicken for a casserole-style version—just reduce the baking time.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

It can be! Swap the panko for crushed pork rinds and skip the mayo if needed to lower the carb count.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the tenders and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What side dishes go well with this?

Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, a simple salad, or low-carb cauliflower rice.

Can I freeze Crack Chicken Tenders?

Yes, freeze them after baking and reheat in the oven for best results. Allow to cool completely before freezing.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

No marinade is needed—this recipe is all about the cheesy topping!

Can I grill them instead?

These are best baked, but you could grill them on foil for a similar effect.

What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?

You can make your own using garlic powder, onion powder, dill, parsley, and a bit of salt.

Are these spicy?

Not by default, but you can easily make them spicy with hot sauce or chili flakes.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Tenders are an easy, cheesy, and crave-worthy dinner option that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, these crispy tenders are sure to become a favorite. Serve them hot and watch them disappear fast!