Name: Easy Crack Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips); 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 packet dry ranch seasoning mix; 1/3 cup cooked and crumbled bacon; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 eggs, beaten; Salt and black pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

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These Easy Crack Chicken Tenders are my favorite way to turn a basic chicken dinner into something absolutely irresistible. Coated in a savory blend of ranch seasoning, cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs, each bite is juicy, flavorful, and addictively good. Whether I’m making a quick weeknight dinner or prepping a game-day snack, these tenders always hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these chicken tenders come together with just a few ingredients and bake up golden and crispy without needing a deep fryer. The creamy ranch flavor paired with melted cheddar makes them taste like comfort food in finger form. They’re family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and perfect for dipping into just about anything.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
Cream cheese (softened)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Dry ranch seasoning mix
Cooked and crumbled bacon
Panko breadcrumbs
Eggs
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil spray (for baking)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, I mix the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, ranch seasoning, and crumbled bacon until well combined.
I season the chicken tenders lightly with salt and pepper.
I spread the cheese mixture over each chicken strip, pressing it to stick.
I dip each coated tender into beaten eggs, then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
I place the tenders on the baking sheet and lightly spray the tops with olive oil.
I bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
I let them rest a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy kick. If I want to lighten it up, I use low-fat cream cheese and turkey bacon. I’ve also swapped panko for crushed cornflakes or seasoned breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I bake them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or air fry them for 5–6 minutes to bring back the crispiness. I avoid microwaving if I want the coating to stay crunchy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, I often slice boneless chicken breasts into strips if I don’t have tenders on hand.

Can I make these in the air fryer?

Absolutely. I air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.

Do I have to use panko breadcrumbs?

No, I sometimes use regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even crushed cornflakes depending on what I have.

What dips go well with these?

I love ranch, honey mustard, spicy mayo, or even BBQ sauce with these tenders. They’re versatile and go with just about anything.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, I freeze them after baking. Once cooled, I store them in a freezer-safe container and reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

Conclusion

Easy Crack Chicken Tenders are one of those recipes I keep in regular rotation—they’re fast, full of flavor, and everyone always wants seconds. Whether I’m serving them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, they deliver crispy, cheesy, savory perfection every time.