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Crack Chicken Tenders

  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Crack Chicken Tenders are insanely addictive! Juicy chicken strips are coated in a creamy ranch and cheese mixture, then baked until golden and bubbly. They’re called “crack” for a reason—because they’re impossible to stop eating!


Ingredients

  • 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix

  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

  • 2 green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Cooking spray or a little oil for greasing


Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.

  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. Mix until well combined.

  3. Pat chicken tenders dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.

  4. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over each chicken tender, pressing gently to help it stick.

  5. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet.

  6. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp should reach 165°F) and the cheese topping is golden and bubbly.

  7. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Serve hot!


Notes

  • These are great dipped in ranch or buffalo sauce.

  • You can swap cheddar with pepper jack for a spicier version.

  • For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or pork rinds on top before baking.