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Crack Chicken Tenders

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These Crack Chicken Tenders are irresistibly crispy, juicy, and loaded with flavor. Coated in a creamy, cheesy, ranch-infused mixture with crispy bacon bits, they’re baked or air-fried to perfection. This easy, family-friendly recipe is perfect for game day snacks, quick dinners, or party appetizers.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1.5 lbs chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Fresh chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer:

  • Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Coating:
In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese, sour cream, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and crumbled bacon.

3. Coat the Chicken Tenders:
Pat the chicken tenders dry. Add them to the bowl with the cream cheese mixture and toss to coat evenly.

4. Add Crunch:
In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil for extra crispiness. Dredge each coated chicken tender in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

5. Cooking Options:

  • Oven: Arrange the tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
  • Air Fryer: Place tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and fully cooked.

Notes

  • Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture.
  • Cheese Options: Swap cheddar with pepper jack for a spicy twist or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
  • Bacon Substitute: Use turkey bacon or omit for a lighter version.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://dailyfamilymeals.com/crack-chicken-tenders/