Crispy, cheesy chicken tenders coated with ranch seasoning and topped with crumbled bacon, these crack chicken tenders are the ultimate comfort food. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main course, this recipe is easy to make and loved by all.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy and cheesy: The panko coating combined with cheddar and Parmesan delivers a perfect crunch with cheesy goodness.
Family-friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike, these tenders are versatile and satisfying.
Simple and quick: Ready in just 40 minutes, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite seasonings or dipping sauces.

Ingredients

1½ pounds chicken tenders
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar)
½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (optional, for extra crispiness)
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, ranch seasoning, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika (if using), and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
Pour the buttermilk into a separate shallow bowl.
Dip each chicken tender into the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres.
Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush them with olive oil or melted butter to enhance crispiness.
Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over the tenders.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy version.
Air fryer option: Cook the tenders in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Extra cheesy: Double the amount of shredded cheddar for an extra cheesy topping.
Herb twist: Mix fresh chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary into the breadcrumb coating.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked, coated tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, slice chicken breasts into strips to create your own tenders.

2. Can I fry these instead of baking?

Yes, fry the tenders in hot oil (about 350°F/175°C) for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

3. Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! Swap cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for variation.

4. What’s the best dipping sauce for these tenders?

Ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or spicy aioli are great choices.

5. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, coat the chicken tenders and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before baking.

6. How do I keep the coating crispy?

Lightly spray or brush the tenders with oil or melted butter before baking to enhance crispiness.

7. Are these suitable for meal prep?

Yes, store cooked tenders in the fridge and reheat them in the oven for a quick and crispy meal.

8. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, but panko gives a lighter and crispier texture.

9. Can I omit the bacon?

Yes, the recipe is still delicious without bacon, though it adds a smoky flavor.

10. What sides pair well with crack chicken tenders?

Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad make excellent sides.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Tenders are a crispy, cheesy delight that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a family dinner, or a quick snack, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Customize the flavors, pair with your favorite dipping sauces, and enjoy this irresistible take on chicken tenders!

Crack Chicken Tenders

Author: Chef Clara
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Crack Chicken Tenders: Crispy, golden-brown tenders with bold seasoning and a creamy dipping sauce. Perfect for a satisfying meal!

Ingredients

Scale

1½ pounds chicken tenders
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar)
½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (optional, for extra crispiness)
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, ranch seasoning, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika (if using), and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
Pour the buttermilk into a separate shallow bowl.
Dip each chicken tender into the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres.
Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush them with olive oil or melted butter to enhance crispiness.
Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over the tenders.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American