Crack Chicken Tenders

Crack Chicken Tenders are a fun, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re incredibly addictive, with a savory, creamy, and cheesy coating that’s hard to resist! Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Crack Chicken Tenders.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces)

• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)

• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (or crumbled cooked bacon)

• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying) or butter

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

1. If the chicken tenders are thick, you can slice them in half lengthwise to make them thinner and cook more evenly.

2. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

2. Make the Crack Chicken Coating:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and bacon bits. Stir until the mixture is well-combined and creamy.

2. Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper, if needed.

3. Coat the Chicken Tenders:

1. Spread the crack chicken mixture generously over the chicken tenders, ensuring they’re well-coated on both sides. You can either use a spoon or your hands for this step.

2. If you prefer a crispy crust, you can dip the coated tenders in breadcrumbs at this point, pressing them gently to make sure they stick.

4. Cook the Chicken Tenders:

Pan-Frying Method:

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken tenders to the skillet in a single layer.

3. Cook the tenders for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Oven-Baking Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

3. Place the coated chicken tenders on the baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown. You can also broil for the last 2-3 minutes to get an extra crispy finish.

5. Serve:

1. Once cooked, remove the tenders from the skillet or oven and let them rest for a few minutes.

2. Garnish with chopped green onions (optional) and serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard.

These Crack Chicken Tenders are perfect for serving as a snack, appetizer, or main dish with a side of veggies or fries. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness! 😋🍗