Description
Crack Chicken Tenders are irresistibly crispy, cheesy, and packed with savory flavors, making them perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or game day snacks. Featuring golden crunchy tenders coated with a creamy blend of cream cheese, cheddar, bacon bits, and ranch seasoning, this dish delivers a perfect harmony of texture and flavor that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- Chicken tenders (1.5 to 2 pounds)
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened)
- Cheddar cheese (1 cup shredded, sharp preferred)
- Bacon bits (1/2 cup)
- Ranch seasoning mix (1 tablespoon)
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup)
Spices & Coating
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon)
- Beaten egg (1 large egg)
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for frying or baking)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the coating adheres well and helps keep the crust crispy once cooked.
- Mix the Creamy Filling: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder until well blended. This mixture provides rich creaminess and flavor that clings to or fills the chicken.
- Stuff or Coat the Tenders: Choose to either stuff each tender with the creamy cheese mixture or spread it generously on the outside of each tender for maximum flavor and creaminess.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each prepared tender into the beaten egg, then roll it fully in panko breadcrumbs to form an even, crispy coating that locks in flavor.
- Cook to Perfection: Fry the tenders in hot oil heated to 350-375°F until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes, or bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until crispy and fully cooked.
- Serve Hot and Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the delightful contrast of crispy exterior and creamy, cheesy interior.
Notes
- Ensure chicken tenders are completely dry before coating for better adhesion and crispiness.
- Apply the creamy filling and breadcrumbs evenly for balanced flavor in each bite.
- Maintain oil temperature between 350-375°F during frying to avoid greasy or undercooked tenders.
- After frying, place tenders on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep them crisp.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best rich flavor without overpowering the dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 tenders
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg