Get ready for your new family favorite: Crack Chicken Tenders. Named for the addictive “Crack Chicken” flavor profile of Ranch, Bacon, and Cheddar, these tenders are oven-baked to crispy perfection. Unlike the slow-cooker stew version, these are breaded, crunchy strips of juicy chicken loaded with smoky bacon bits, zesty ranch seasoning, and sharp cheddar cheese right in the crust. They are healthier than frying but taste just as indulgent, making them a huge hit for game days or picky kid dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavor Explosion
Every layer of this chicken is seasoned. The breading isn’t just plain crumbs; it’s a mixture of panko for crunch, ranch powder for zest, and real bacon and cheese for savory depth. This means you don’t even need a dipping sauce (though we recommend one!). The combination creates a savory, salty, cheesy crust that makes plain chicken tenders feel boring.
Baked, Not Fried
Achieving a golden, crunchy crust in the oven is easy with panko breadcrumbs. This method saves you the mess of deep-frying oil and cuts down significantly on calories. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy “fried” chicken at home.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins
- 1.5 cups Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
- 0.5 cup cheddar cheese, finely shredded
- 0.25 cup bacon bits
- 2 large eggs
- 0.5 cup flour
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Prepare dredging stations (flour, eggs, crumb mix).
- Mix panko, ranch, cheese, and bacon bits for the crust.
- Coat chicken in flour, egg, then press into crumb mix.
- Bake on a sprayed sheet for 15-20 minutes until golden.
Nutrition
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Chicken Tenders: Tenderloins are naturally soft, or slice breasts into strips.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Essential for the crunch. Regular crumbs will be too dense.
Ranch Seasoning: Use a dry packet (like Hidden Valley).
Bacon Bits: Real crumbled bacon bits (not the fake red bits) work best in the breading.
Cheddar Cheese: Finely shredded cheese integrates into the crust without falling off.
Eggs/Flour: For the standard breading station.
Smart Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, use GF panko and flour. You can use Parmesan instead of cheddar for a sharper flavor. If you want to skip the bacon, smoked paprika adds a nice smoky alternative.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the “Crack” mixture (panko, ranch mix, bacon bits, cheese).
Cooking Phase
Pat the chicken dry.
Dredge each tender in flour, shaking off excess.
Dip into the egg wash.
Press firmly into the panko/bacon/cheese mixture, ensuring a thick coating adheres to all sides.
Place on the baking sheet. Spray the tops lightly with cooking oil spray.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Press the breading on hard. Since there are chunky bits like bacon and cheese, you need to really pack it onto the meat. Also, use a wire rack on top of your baking sheet if you have one—this allows heat to circulate underneath, making the bottom just as crispy as the top.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using thick shreds of cheese in the breading creates a mess. Use finely shredded cheese so it blends with the crumbs. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan; touching tenders will steam instead of crisp.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 18g |
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve hot with a side of Ranch dressing mixed with a little BBQ sauce for dipping.
Pairing Suggestions
Coleslaw or corn on the cob make great sides. If you love flavorful chicken recipes, try our Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Feta for a fresh alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes.
Q2? Can I prep them ahead?
You can bread them and store in the fridge for up to 4 hours before baking.
Q3? How to reheat?
Oven or toaster oven is best to keep them crispy. Microwave will make them soggy.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Tenders are a crispy, savory delight that reinvents the boring chicken strip. Packed with bacon, cheddar, and ranch, they are guaranteed to disappear fast.
