Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crack Chicken Tenders are irresistibly crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. Coated in a seasoned blend of ranch, cheese, and crispy bacon bits, these tenders live up to their name—one bite, and you’ll be hooked. Whether baked or air-fried, they make the perfect weeknight dinner, party appetizer, or game-day snack.

ingredients

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

chicken tenders
cream cheese
shredded cheddar cheese
ranch seasoning mix
cooked and crumbled bacon
eggs
panko breadcrumbs
all-purpose flour
garlic powder
onion powder
paprika
salt and pepper
cooking spray or oil (for baking or air frying)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, ranch seasoning, and crumbled bacon until well combined. Set aside.

Set up a dredging station with three bowls: flour mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in one; beaten eggs in the second; panko breadcrumbs in the third.

Pat the chicken tenders dry, then stuff a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture inside each tender (you can cut a small slit for stuffing if needed).

Dredge each stuffed tender in the flour, dip into the egg wash, and coat evenly with panko.

Place the coated tenders on a lined baking sheet or in your air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking spray.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 chicken tenders.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes (oven) or 12-15 minutes (air fryer)
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Use spicy ranch seasoning for an extra kick.
Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for a twist.
Add chopped jalapeños into the cheese mixture for a spicy version.
Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, buffalo, or honey mustard.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to keep them crispy.
Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the crunch.

FAQs

What is “crack chicken”?
It refers to a combo of chicken, cheese, ranch seasoning, and bacon that’s famously addictive.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, slice them into strips before stuffing and coating.

Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep and refrigerate them a few hours before baking or air frying.

Do I have to stuff the tenders?
No, you can mix the “crack” ingredients and serve them as a topping or dipping sauce instead.

Can these be frozen?
Yes, freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra cook time.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Tenders are everything you love—crispy, cheesy, savory, and full of comfort. Whether served as a meal or a snack, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast. Give this addictive recipe a try and watch it become a family favorite!