Crack Chicken Tenders

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These Crack Chicken Tenders are a crowd-pleasing combination of crispy chicken, creamy ranch, savory cheese, and smoky bacon. They’re great as an appetizer, snack, or main dish!

Ingredients

Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins (or chicken breast cut into strips)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs (beaten)
  • 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Crack Mixture:

  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing (for drizzling or dipping)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)
  • 2 green onions (chopped, for garnish)

Cooking Oil:

  • Oil for frying (or spray for baking/air frying)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Coatings

  1. Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls:
    • Bowl 1: Flour seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
    • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
    • Bowl 3: Seasoned breadcrumbs.
  2. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.

2. Coat the Chicken

  1. Dredge each tender in the flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
  2. Place coated tenders on a plate or wire rack while preparing to cook.

3. Cook the Tenders

Option 1: Frying

  1. Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat (about 350°F/175°C).
  2. Fry the tenders in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).

Option 2: Baking

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet and spray lightly with oil.
  3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through.

Option 3: Air Frying

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange tenders in a single layer and spray with oil.
  3. Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. Add the Crack Mixture

  1. Arrange the cooked chicken tenders on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish.
  2. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the tenders.
  3. Place in the oven (or air fryer) at 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes, just until the cheese melts.

5. Serve

  1. Drizzle ranch dressing over the tenders or serve it on the side for dipping.
  2. Garnish with chopped green onions.

Tips for Success

  • For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
  • Add a touch of heat with cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes in the seasoning mix.
  • Make these ahead by preparing the tenders and refrigerating before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Crack Chicken Tenders with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a side of coleslaw for a complete meal. They’re perfect for game days, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.

Enjoy the addictive flavors of these cheesy, bacon-packed chicken tenders! 🐔🧀🥓

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