Crack Chicken Tenders

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Introduction

Crack Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and indulgent twist on a classic chicken tender recipe, combining a blend of creamy cheese, savory ranch seasoning, and tender chicken. The name “Crack” comes from how irresistibly delicious these tenders are—once you start eating them, it’s hard to stop! With the creamy and cheesy coating that’s baked to crispy perfection, these chicken tenders are sure to become a favorite in your household.

This recipe is ideal for anyone looking for a satisfying and easy-to-make dish that both kids and adults will love. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner or meal prepping for the week, Crack Chicken Tenders will make a statement on your dining table.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Weeknight meals
• Game day snacks
• Kid-friendly meals
• Chicken lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Crack Chicken Tenders will become your go-to recipe:

• Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of ranch seasoning, cheese, and a touch of cream cheese creates a smooth, savory coating that perfectly complements the tender chicken.
• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these flavorful tenders in no time.
• Crispy and Tender: The coating becomes golden and crispy in the oven, while the chicken stays juicy and tender inside.
• Versatile: These tenders can be paired with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, salad, or rice, or served as appetizers for parties and gatherings.
• Customizable: You can adjust the level of seasoning or add extra ingredients like garlic or herbs to suit your preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 8g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these mouth-watering Crack Chicken Tenders:

• 1 pound chicken tenders (boneless, skinless)
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (ensure it’s alcohol- and pork-free)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Cream Cheese: Adds a creamy richness to the coating and helps bind the seasonings to the chicken.
• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a sharp, rich flavor that melts beautifully over the chicken tenders.
• Ranch Seasoning: This seasoning blend is key to creating that signature flavor, with a perfect balance of herbs and spices.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a slightly nutty, savory flavor and a golden, crispy crust when baked.
• Chicken Tenders: These are perfect for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay tender while absorbing the creamy coating.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make the best Crack Chicken Tenders:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the tenders from sticking.
2. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Prepare the Coating: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and Parmesan cheese. Use a spatula to mix until the ingredients are well combined and form a creamy mixture.
4. Coat the Chicken: Place each chicken tender into the cheese mixture, making sure to coat each piece evenly. You can use your hands or a spatula to spread the mixture onto the chicken. For an extra layer of flavor, press the tenders into the mixture a second time.

Bake the Chicken Tenders:

5. Place on the Baking Sheet: Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the top of each chicken tender for added crispness.
6. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. You can check for doneness by cutting into a tender to ensure there is no pink in the center, or use a meat thermometer to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Optional Garnish: Once the chicken tenders are out of the oven, you can sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve the Crack Chicken Tenders:

8. Cut and Serve: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. You can serve them as is, or with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard.

How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders

Crack Chicken Tenders can be served in a variety of ways:

• With Dipping Sauces: Pair these tenders with a variety of sauces such as ranch, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or even a spicy buffalo sauce.
• With a Side Salad: Serve the tenders with a fresh side salad of mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes for a light and refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
• As a Sandwich: Place the tenders in a bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments for a delicious chicken sandwich.
• With Rice or Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• As Appetizers: Serve these tenders as an appetizer at a party or family gathering with multiple dipping options for guests to enjoy.

Additional Tips for Crack Chicken Tenders

Here are some tips to make your Crack Chicken Tenders even better:

• Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese gives the coating a richer flavor and helps it adhere to the chicken better.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Ensure the chicken tenders are placed in a single layer with some space in between each one. This allows them to cook evenly and get crispy.
• Add Garlic: For an extra kick of flavor, you can mix some minced garlic into the coating mixture or sprinkle garlic powder on the chicken before baking.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt better and provide a more intense flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken tenders in advance by coating the chicken and storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Recipe Variations of Crack Chicken Tenders

Here are 10 variations of Crack Chicken Tenders that you can try:

• Spicy Crack Chicken Tenders: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the coating for a spicy kick.
• Buffalo Crack Chicken Tenders: Drizzle buffalo sauce over the baked tenders or add it to the coating for a tangy and spicy flavor.
• Herb-Infused Crack Chicken Tenders: Add a teaspoon of dried thyme, rosemary, or basil to the seasoning mix for a fresh herbal touch.
• Garlic Parmesan Crack Chicken Tenders: Increase the Parmesan in the coating and add more minced garlic for a richer flavor.
• BBQ Crack Chicken Tenders: Coat the tenders in BBQ sauce before adding the cheese mixture to give them a smoky, sweet flavor.
• Cheesy Bacon Crack Chicken Tenders: Top the baked tenders with crispy bacon crumbles (ensure they’re Halal) for an extra savory crunch.
• Lemon Herb Crack Chicken Tenders: Add lemon zest and fresh parsley to the coating for a fresh, citrusy twist.
• Cajun Crack Chicken Tenders: Use Cajun seasoning in place of the ranch seasoning for a spicy, Southern-inspired flavor.
• Cheddar and Chive Crack Chicken Tenders: Stir chopped fresh chives into the cheese mixture for added freshness and flavor.
• Zesty Crack Chicken Tenders: Mix in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or hot sauce into the coating for a tangy twist.

Freezing and Storage for Crack Chicken Tenders

• Freezing: You can freeze Crack Chicken Tenders before baking for up to 3 months. Simply coat the tenders and arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When ready to bake, bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store any leftover cooked tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to maintain their crispiness.

Special Equipment for Crack Chicken Tenders

Here are some equipment items you might need to make Crack Chicken Tenders:

• Baking Sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet is essential for baking the chicken tenders evenly.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: This will help prevent the tenders from sticking to the pan and make cleanup easier.
• Mixing Bowls: Use large bowls to mix the cheese and seasoning mixture thoroughly.
• Tongs: Tongs will help you handle the tenders and coat them evenly without making a mess.
• Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer ensures that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

FAQ Section about Crack Chicken Tenders

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
   Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just slice them into strips to match the size of tenders.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   To make it dairy-free, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free version and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
3. How do I know when the chicken is done?
   The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) or when the juices run clear.
4. Can I use a different seasoning besides ranch?
   Absolutely! You can use Cajun, Italian seasoning, or any of your favorite seasoning blends for a different flavor profile.
5. Can I air fry these tenders?
   Yes, you can air fry them. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the tenders for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Tenders are a deliciously addictive dish that will quickly become a family favorite. With their crispy, cheesy coating and juicy chicken inside, they offer the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, as a snack, or for a special occasion, these tenders are guaranteed to impress. Easy to make, versatile, and packed with flavor, Crack Chicken Tenders are a must-try for any chicken lover. Enjoy!