Ingredients:
1 lb chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced into strips)
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup ranch dressing
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers for extra crunch)
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Season the chicken tenders with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides.
2. Make the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon until well combined.
3. Assemble the Tenders:
Spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture on top of each chicken tender.
In another bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter until lightly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the cheese-covered chicken, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Bake:
Arrange the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F) and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces or sides like a simple salad, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies.
Tips:
Air Fryer Option: Cook the tenders in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes for extra crispiness.
Keto-Friendly Version: Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for a low-carb alternative.
Make-Ahead: Prep the chicken with the topping, cover, and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
This ✨ Crack Chicken Tenders recipe is the easiest dinner that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. It’s comfort food at its best—cheesy, crispy, and downright addictive!