Crack Chicken Tenders
Are you in the mood for a delicious and easy chicken dish? Look no further than Crack Chicken Tenders! These crispy, cheesy, and flavorful chicken tenders are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
Crack Chicken Tenders are a hit because they combine the savory tastes of ranch, cheese, and bacon. They are simple to make and are sure to please picky eaters. Plus, baking them makes them a bit healthier than deep-fried options. These tenders are perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own. You can even customize them with your favorite sauces!
How to Make Crack Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or oil
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together ranch dressing mix, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated tenders on a greased baking sheet.
- Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Serve hot.
How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders
These chicken tenders are best served hot and crispy! Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard. They make a great appetizer, a snack for game day, or a tasty main dish with sides like fries or a fresh salad.
How to Store Crack Chicken Tenders
To store leftover Crack Chicken Tenders, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for extra crispiness!
Tips to Make Crack Chicken Tenders
- Make sure the chicken tenders are not overcrowded on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- For even more flavor, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
- You can also use different seasonings based on your taste. Try adding Italian seasoning or chili powder for a kick!
Variation
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of panko. For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the ranch dressing mix.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
A: Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips to use instead of tenders.
Q: Can I freeze Crack Chicken Tenders?
A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked tenders. Just coat them and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Bake them straight from the freezer but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: What dipping sauces go well with these tenders?
A: Ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy aioli all make great dips for Crack Chicken Tenders!
Now you have all you need to make a fantastic batch of Crack Chicken Tenders. Enjoy cooking!
