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–+ servings
Crispy baked chicken tenders with a cheesy bacon topping arranged on a rustic serving tray, ready to be served for dinner.
FL Recipes

Crack Chicken Tenders: The Ultimate Cheesy Bacon Ranch Recipe

Meet your new favorite meal: Crack Chicken Tenders! This easy recipe combines crispy baked chicken with the famously addictive trio of cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning for a guaranteed family-pleasing dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins patted dry
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 oz packet dry ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon crumbled
  • 2 tbsp sliced green onions or chives for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 Baking Sheet
  • 3 Mixing Bowls

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and green onions. Mix until well combined and set aside.
  3. Pat the chicken tenderloins dry. Coat each tender first in flour, then dip in the egg wash, and finally press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs to coat completely.
  4. Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
  5. Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tender. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F) and the topping is bubbly and golden.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalProtein: 35gFat: 25gFiber: 1g

Notes

Ensure the chicken is patted very dry to help the breading stick properly.
For extra crispy tenders, you can lightly spray them with cooking oil before baking.
Keyword bacon ranch chicken,cheesy chicken tenders,crack chicken tenders

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