Description
“Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor! Coated in ranch seasoning, cheddar, bacon, and panko, these juicy tenders are perfect for baking, frying, or air frying. A must-try for easy dinners or game day!”
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or oil for baking/frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Breading Station
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. If frying, heat about 1 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs.
- In another bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper.
- In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning, and crumbled bacon.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg wash, ensuring full coverage.
- Press into the cheesy breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Tenders
Baking Method:
- Place the coated tenders on a greased baking sheet.
- Lightly spray with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
Frying Method:
- Carefully place the coated tenders in hot oil.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Notes
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 5-6 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying, Baking, Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Crack Chicken Tenders, Crispy Chicken, Cheesy Chicken, Baked Chicken Tenders, Air Fryer Chicken