These Crack Chicken Tenders are named for their dangerously addictive flavor combination of Ranch, Bacon, and Cheddar. But don’t let the name fool you—this is a wholesome, kid-friendly dinner that is baked in the oven, not fried. The crispy Panko coating is loaded with savory goodies that make even picky eaters ask for seconds. They are crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with the flavors everyone loves.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A Flavor Explosion
Bland chicken tenders are a thing of the past. By mixing dry Ranch seasoning, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar directly into the breadcrumbs, every bite is infused with savory, zesty, cheesy goodness. It’s a texture and flavor party that needs no dipping sauce (though Ranch dressing on the side never hurts!).
Baked to Perfection
Achieving a crispy crust without a deep fryer is easy with Panko breadcrumbs. Baking them at a high temperature ensures they get golden and crunchy without the grease or mess of frying oil. It’s a healthier alternative that cleans up in a snap.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins
- 1.5 cups Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix (dry)
- 0.5 cup cheddar cheese, finely shredded
- 0.25 cup bacon bits
- 2 large eggs
- 0.5 cup flour
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Set up dredging stations (flour, eggs, crumb mix).
- Mix panko, ranch, cheese, and bacon bits for the crust.
- Coat chicken in flour, egg, then press into crumb mix.
- Bake on a sprayed sheet for 15-20 minutes until golden.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Chicken Tenders: Tenderloins are naturally soft, or slice breasts into strips.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Essential for the crunch.
Ranch Seasoning: A dry packet (like Hidden Valley) brings the zest.
Bacon Bits: Real crumbled bacon adds smoky saltiness.
Cheddar Cheese: Finely shredded cheese melts into the crust.
Egg & Flour: To help the breading stick.
Smart Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, use GF Panko and flour. You can swap the cheddar for Parmesan for a nuttier flavor. If you want to skip the bacon, smoked paprika is a good seasoning alternative.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the “Crack” mixture (panko, ranch mix, bacon bits, cheese).
Cooking Phase
Pat the chicken dry. Dredge each tender in flour, shaking off excess.
Dip into the egg wash.
Press firmly into the panko mixture, ensuring a thick coating adheres to all sides.
Place on the baking sheet. Spray the tops lightly with cooking oil spray.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Press the breading on hard. Since there are chunky bits like bacon and cheese, you need to really pack it onto the meat. Also, use a wire rack on top of your baking sheet if you have one—this allows heat to circulate underneath, making the bottom just as crispy as the top.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using thick shreds of cheese in the breading creates a mess. Use finely shredded cheese so it blends with the crumbs. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan; touching tenders will steam instead of crisp.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 16g |
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve hot with a side of BBQ sauce or Ranch for dipping.
Pairing Suggestions
Sweet potato fries or roasted broccoli make great sides. If you love savory chicken dishes, check out our Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles (20-Min!) for another kid-friendly winner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I make these in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q2? Can I prep them ahead?
You can bread them and leave them in the fridge for up to 4 hours before baking.
Q3? How do I reheat them?
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Microwave will make them soggy.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Tenders are a crispy, savory delight that reinvents the boring chicken strip. Packed with bacon, cheddar, and ranch, they are guaranteed to disappear fast.
