Description
These Crack Chicken Tenders are everything you love about “crack chicken” – ranch, bacon, cheese – all packed into crispy, golden chicken tenders. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, party platter, or game-day snack!
Ingredients
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1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
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1/2 cup mayonnaise or sour cream
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1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
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1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
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Olive oil spray or melted butter (for baking)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly spray with oil.
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In a small bowl, mix mayo or sour cream with half the ranch seasoning.
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In another bowl, mix crushed crackers, remaining ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and bacon bits.
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Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture, then press into the cracker mixture until fully coated.
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Place tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle tops with oil or melted butter for crispiness.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
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Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
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Serve hot with ranch, honey mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
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For extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne to the coating.
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You can prep and refrigerate ahead—just bake when ready to serve.
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These freeze great—reheat in oven or air fryer for best results.