Crack Chicken Tenders

Introduction

Crack Chicken Tenders are the perfect comfort food—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with irresistible flavor. These chicken tenders are coated in a flavorful blend of ranch seasoning, bacon, and cheese, making them a dish that’s sure to be a hit at any table.

I first made these tenders when I was craving something hearty and satisfying, and they turned out to be an instant favorite. The combination of crispy coating and gooey, cheesy filling is simply unbeatable. The ranch seasoning adds the perfect kick, while the bacon brings an irresistible smoky flavor that everyone loves. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, a main dish, or at a gathering, these tenders are always a crowd-pleaser.

What’s great about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a batch of delicious tenders ready in no time. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or preparing for a party, these tenders are sure to disappear fast!

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Game day
• Parties and gatherings
• Quick weeknight meals
• Chicken lovers

Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Tenders

Here’s why Crack Chicken Tenders will become your go-to recipe:

• Crispy, Crunchy Coating: The breading gives these tenders a satisfying crunch, while the bacon and cheese create a flavorful crust.
• Savory and Flavorful: The combination of ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon makes each bite full of bold, savory flavor.
• Juicy Chicken: The chicken tenders stay juicy and tender inside, making them a delicious contrast to the crispy exterior.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, these tenders come together quickly and are sure to impress.
• Versatile: You can serve these tenders with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce, and they also pair well with a variety of sides.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Crack Chicken Tenders:

• 1 lb chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into tenders)
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or your preferred crackers)
• ½ cup grated cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Ranch Seasoning: The ranch seasoning provides a savory and tangy flavor that’s a key part of the “crack” factor, making the tenders irresistible.
• Cheddar Cheese: The cheddar adds a rich, gooey texture and a bold cheese flavor that pairs perfectly with the ranch seasoning and bacon.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon bits lend a smoky and crunchy element to the tenders, elevating the overall taste.
• Crackers: Crushed crackers create a crispy, golden coating that makes the chicken tenders extra crunchy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Crack Chicken Tenders:

Prepare the Coating:

1. Preheat the Oven or Heat the Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or heat a large skillet over medium-high heat if frying.
2. Prepare the Breading: In a shallow bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, grated cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir to combine.
3. Prepare the Egg Wash: In another shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until smooth.
4. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken tenders with a little salt and pepper to taste.

Coat the Chicken Tenders:

5. Dip the Chicken in the Egg Wash: Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, coating it evenly.
6. Coat with the Breading: After dipping in the egg wash, dredge the chicken tenders in the cracker mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.

Cook the Chicken Tenders:

7. Fry (or Bake) the Tenders:
   • For frying: Heat the olive oil in the skillet. Once hot, add the chicken tenders and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
   • For baking: Arrange the breaded tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
8. Rest the Tenders: Allow the tenders to rest for a few minutes after cooking to help the juices redistribute.

How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders

Crack Chicken Tenders are a versatile and flavorful dish that pairs well with many sides and sauces:

• With Dipping Sauces: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
• With Vegetables or Fries: Pair these tenders with a side of roasted vegetables, fries, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• In a Wrap or Sandwich: These tenders can also be used as a filling in wraps, sandwiches, or even in a salad for a lighter meal.
• For Game Day or Parties: Serve these tenders as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at parties, game day, or holiday gatherings.
• As a Quick Dinner: They’re also perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner the whole family will enjoy.

Additional Tips for Crack Chicken Tenders

Here are some tips to ensure your Crack Chicken Tenders are perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken tenders will result in juicier, more flavorful chicken than frozen.
• Make Sure the Oil is Hot: When frying, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to prevent soggy tenders. The oil should sizzle when the chicken is added.
• Try Baking for Less Fat: If you’re looking for a healthier version, baking the tenders is a great option and still produces crispy results.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the cracker mixture before breading to make sure it’s seasoned to your liking. You can always add more ranch seasoning or other spices for extra flavor.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C).

Recipe Variations for Crack Chicken Tenders

Here are 10 variations you can try for Crack Chicken Tenders:

• Spicy Crack Chicken Tenders: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cracker mixture for a spicy kick.
• Parmesan Crack Chicken Tenders: Mix in some grated Parmesan cheese with the cheddar for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Garlic Herb Crack Chicken Tenders: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like thyme or oregano to the breading mix for added depth of flavor.
• Sweet and Spicy Crack Chicken Tenders: Combine ranch seasoning with a drizzle of honey and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a sweet and spicy combination.
• Crispy Bacon-Free Crack Chicken Tenders: Omit the bacon for a lighter version of the tenders while still maintaining all the delicious seasoning flavors.
• Buffalo Crack Chicken Tenders: Toss the cooked tenders in buffalo sauce after frying or baking for a tangy twist.
• Gluten-Free Crack Chicken Tenders: Use gluten-free crackers and flour in place of the regular breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
• Lemon Pepper Crack Chicken Tenders: Add lemon zest and lemon pepper seasoning to the breading for a fresh citrus twist.
• Cheesy Jalapeño Crack Chicken Tenders: Add chopped jalapeños and more cheese to the breading for a spicy, cheesy version.
• Crispy Chicken Tenders with a Side of Mac and Cheese: Pair your tenders with a creamy mac and cheese for a comforting and indulgent meal.

Freezing and Storage for Crack Chicken Tenders

• Freezing: You can freeze the breaded chicken tenders before cooking. Lay the breaded tenders on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. To cook, bake or fry straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftover cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Special Equipment for Crack Chicken Tenders

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Crack Chicken Tenders easier:

• Large Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan: For frying the tenders evenly and giving them a crispy coating.
• Baking Sheets: Use parchment-lined baking sheets for baking the tenders for an easy cleanup.
• Meat Thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the chicken and ensure it’s fully cooked.
• Shallow Bowls: For breading the chicken tenders in the egg wash and the seasoned cracker mixture.
• Cooling Rack: For resting the tenders after frying to keep them crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions for Crack Chicken Tenders

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
   Yes, you can cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into tenders. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the pieces.
2. Can I make these chicken tenders in advance?
   Yes, you can bread and freeze the tenders ahead of time for a quicker meal when you’re ready to cook.
3. Can I make these tenders without bacon?
   Absolutely! If you prefer, you can leave out the bacon or substitute with another protein like sausage for a different flavor.
4. Can I bake these tenders without frying?
   Yes, you can bake these chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for a crispy texture.
5. Can I add different spices to the breading?
   Definitely! Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or other spices.

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Conclusion

Crack Chicken Tenders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, taking crispy chicken to a whole new level with a mouthwatering mix of ranch seasoning, bacon, and cheese. Each tender is packed with flavor and crunch, making them perfect for any occasion—from a quick weeknight dinner to a fun party appetizer. These tenders are the kind of dish that will have everyone coming back for more.

They’re super easy to make and even more fun to eat, and you can pair them with any dipping sauce you love. Whether you serve them with ranch, honey mustard, or something else, they’re bound to be a hit.

I’d love to see how your Crack Chicken Tenders turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creation! Happy cooking!