If you’re looking for a dish that’s both irresistible and packed with flavor, Crack Chicken Tenders should be your go-to recipe. These tender, juicy chicken strips are stuffed with a creamy, cheesy filling, then coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection. The combination of creamy ranch, cheddar, and bacon creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re preparing this as a family dinner, a party snack, or a game-day treat, these chicken tenders are sure to impress. In this article, we will break down the ingredients, the preparation method, and offer some helpful tips to ensure your Crack Chicken Tenders turn out perfect every time.
Ingredients for Crack Chicken Tenders
To make these delicious Crack Chicken Tenders, you’ll need the following ingredients. The quantities listed below will serve about 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes.
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken tenders (alternatively, you can use chicken breast cut into strips)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2-3 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 4 slices)
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped (optional)
For the Coating:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for baking)
Directions and Preparation Method
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your tenders bake evenly and crisply. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking during the baking process.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and ranch seasoning mix. This mixture will create the crispy outer layer for your chicken tenders. Set this aside for now.
Next, in another shallow bowl, beat the egg. Season the chicken tenders with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavor of the chicken.
3. Make the Filling:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions (optional). Mix these ingredients until the filling is smooth and well combined. This creamy filling is what makes these tenders so addictive, adding flavor and moisture to the chicken.
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Take each chicken tender and use a sharp knife to create a pocket in the center of the chicken. Be careful not to cut all the way through—just enough to create space for the filling. Stuff each chicken tender generously with the creamy cheese and bacon mixture, pressing the opening closed gently. You want to make sure the filling stays inside while baking.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Once all of your chicken tenders are stuffed, dip each one into the egg wash, ensuring they are fully coated. Then, immediately transfer the tenders into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs stick well to the chicken. This step will give the tenders their crispy texture once they bake.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Place the coated chicken tenders onto your prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil or cooking spray to help them crisp up in the oven. Bake the chicken tenders for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. To make sure the chicken is cooked through, check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve:
Once your Crack Chicken Tenders are done, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring that the chicken stays tender and juicy. These tenders are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with dipping sauces such as ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard for an added touch.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Crack Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly crispy and flavorful, follow these helpful tips:
Make it Crispy: If you love a really crispy coating, consider placing your tenders on a wire rack set over the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the tenders and helps the coating become extra crispy.
Air Fryer Option: If you prefer to use an air fryer, you can easily adapt this recipe. Simply spray the tenders with a bit of cooking oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. Make sure to flip the tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are evenly crispy on both sides.
Customize the Filling: The filling for Crack Chicken Tenders is versatile. If you’re feeling adventurous, add extra ingredients like shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped jalapeños for a bit of heat, or even diced tomatoes for a fresh burst of flavor.
Leftovers: If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat the tenders in the oven or air fryer to preserve their crispy coating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used in place of chicken tenders. Simply cut the chicken breasts into strips of a similar size to tenders. The cooking time may need to be adjusted depending on the thickness of the chicken.
2. Can I freeze Crack Chicken Tenders?
Yes, you can freeze the prepared but uncooked chicken tenders. Once coated, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them until firm. Then transfer the tenders to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until fully cooked.
3. What type of breadcrumbs should I use?
Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for achieving a light and crispy texture, but regular breadcrumbs will work as well. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
4. Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time. After stuffing and coating the chicken, cover them and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before baking. When you’re ready, bake them according to the instructions.
5. What dipping sauces go well with Crack Chicken Tenders?
These chicken tenders pair well with a variety of dipping sauces, including ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or even a spicy buffalo sauce if you want to add some heat.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Tenders are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves a deliciously crispy and cheesy chicken dish. With a perfect balance of creamy filling and crispy coating, these tenders are bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, as a snack, or at your next gathering, these tenders are sure to impress. With the right balance of ingredients and some helpful tips, you’ll be able to recreate this irresistible dish in no time. Enjoy the cheesy, crispy goodness of Crack Chicken Tenders, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself going back for seconds (or thirds)!