Name: Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken tenderloins; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped

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Introduction

Crack Chicken Tenders are irresistibly flavorful, combining tender chicken with a creamy, cheesy, bacon-infused sauce that will have you coming back for more. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests when you want big taste with minimal fuss.

The image shows a close-up of three pieces of crispy fried chicken stacked in a white basket lined with brown paper. The top piece is broken in half, revealing a tender, juicy white inside with a golden, crunchy outer layer sprinkled with small green chopped herbs. In the background, there is a blurred white bowl filled with golden French fries and a small white bowl of reddish-brown dipping sauce. The scene is on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 pounds chicken tenderloins
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Pat the chicken tenderloins dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Drying the chicken improves browning and helps create a better crust.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, starting with a cold pan for even rendering. Remove bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the grease in the pan. Once cool, crumble the bacon.
Step 3: Using the same skillet with bacon grease, add olive oil if necessary. Cook chicken tenders for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C). Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
Step 4: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and half of the crumbled bacon. For a smoother sauce, beat this mixture with an electric mixer for 60 seconds.
Step 5: Reduce heat to low. Return the chicken to the skillet and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tender. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover with a lid, and cook until the cheese melts, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with the remaining bacon and chopped green onions. Let rest for 3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and juices to redistribute.

Tips & Variations

Use Greek yogurt cream cheese for a lighter sauce.
Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese to add a spicy kick.
Try turkey bacon as a leaner alternative.
Make your own ranch seasoning with dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Grate your cheese fresh for better melting and texture.

Storage

Store leftover Crack Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Flavors often deepen after a day. They freeze well for up to 2 months—wrap portions in parchment paper and place in a freezer bag. Reheat in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes to maintain moisture and crispness; microwaving is not recommended.

How to Serve

Several pieces of golden-brown fried chicken tenders are stacked in a white container lined with light brown paper. The top tender is cut open, showing a juicy, white inside with a crispy, crunchy brown breaded outside sprinkled with small green chives. Behind the chicken tenders, a pile of pale yellow French fries rests along with a small white bowl filled with reddish-brown dipping sauce. The whole scene sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Crack Chicken Tenders in an air fryer?

Yes, cook the tenders at 380°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Then transfer to a baking dish, top with the crack sauce mixture, and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Why are they called “Crack” Chicken Tenders?

The name comes from their addictive quality. The creamy combination of cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and bacon creates an irresistible flavor that keeps people coming back for more.