These Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy, cheesy, and packed with the irresistible flavors of ranch seasoning, bacon, and melted cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, snacks, or game-day appetizers, this easy recipe is a surefire hit with both kids and adults!
Ingredients
(Serves 4–6)
- 1 ½ pounds (680g) chicken tenders (or sliced chicken breasts)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup (240g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (100g) panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar)
- ½ cup (120g) cooked, crumbled bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, ranch seasoning, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika (if using), and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
- Pour the buttermilk into a separate shallow bowl.
- Dip each chicken tender into the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake
- Spray or brush the tenders lightly with olive oil or melted butter to enhance crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Bacon
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over the chicken tenders.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm with ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard for dipping.
Pro Tips
- Air Fryer Option: Cook the chicken tenders in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, for an even crispier result.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the buttermilk for a spicy twist.
- Meal Prep: These tenders reheat well in the oven or air fryer, making them great for meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Addictive Flavor: The combination of ranch, cheese, and bacon is downright irresistible.
- Family-Friendly: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for both kids and adults.
- Versatile: Enjoy them as a main dish, snack, or appetizer.
Try these Crack Chicken Tenders tonight and watch them disappear in no time! Let me know if you’d like ideas for sides or other variations. 🍗✨🧀