Easy Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

Yields: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Recipe Intensity: Easy

If you’re searching for a dinner recipe that is guaranteed to become a family favorite, look no further. These Easy Crack Chicken Tenders are irresistibly juicy, packed with flavor, and come together in one pan in under 30 minutes. The “crack” name comes from their famously addictive quality, thanks to a simple, creamy topping of ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and cheddar that bakes into a golden, cheesy crust.

This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight, a last-minute potluck dish, or meal prep for the week. The steps are straightforward, the ingredients are simple, and the result is a tender, flavorful chicken dish that everyone will ask for again and again.

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Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips)

• 1 (1 oz) packet dry ranch seasoning mix

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

• ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped chives or green onions, for garnish

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:

• 9×13 inch baking dish or a large oven-safe skillet

• Mixing bowl

• Spatula or spoons

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, pat the chicken tenderloins completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting a nice sear and preventing the chicken from steaming. Lightly drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Create the Creamy “Crack” Topping

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, dry ranch seasoning, and ½ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix vigorously until well combined and smooth. If the cream cheese is too cold, you may have lumps. For best results, ensure it is truly softened.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Arrange the oiled chicken tenderloins in a single layer in your baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Using a spoon or a small spatula, evenly divide the cream cheese mixture among the tenderloins, spreading it thickly over the top of each piece. You want a generous, flavorful layer on every bite.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. After 15 minutes, carefully remove the dish and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and the crumbled bacon evenly over the top. Return to the oven for 3-5 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should register 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once out of the oven, let the chicken tenders rest in the pan for 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays incredibly tender. Garnish generously with freshly chopped chives or green onions before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

These crack chicken tenders are incredibly versatile! Here are a few ways to enjoy them:

• As a Low-Carb Main: Serve alongside a fresh green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus for a complete, satisfying meal.

• Over Rice or Pasta: The creamy, cheesy sauce is divine spooned over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or your favorite pasta.

• As a Sandwich: Pile a few tenders onto a toasted brioche bun or a hoagie roll for the ultimate decadent sandwich.

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Tips, Notes, and Variations

• Meal Prep Friendly: Cook a double batch on Sunday! Let the tenders cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

• Avoid Overcooking: Chicken tenderloins are lean and cook quickly. Keep a close eye on them after the 15-minute mark to prevent them from drying out. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfect results every time.

• Crispier Bacon: For extra crispy bacon on top, wait to add the bacon until the final 2-3 minutes of baking, or simply use it as a fresh garnish after baking.

• Spice it Up: Add a kick by mixing ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce into the cream cheese mixture.

• From Scratch: Make your own ranch seasoning by combining 2 tsp dried dill, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried parsley, ½ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp salt.

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Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 2-3 tenders (approximately ¼ of the recipe)
Calories: 485
Total Fat: 32g

• Saturated Fat: 14g

• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 165mg
  Sodium: 980mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 4g

• Dietary Fiber: 0g

• Sugars: 2g
  Protein: 44g

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using an online calculator and will vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use. The sodium content is primarily from the ranch seasoning and bacon; for a lower-sodium version, consider using a low-sodium ranch mix and reducing the amount of added bacon.