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Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

Irresistible Crack Chicken Tenders made with juicy chicken, ranch seasoning, melty cheese, and crispy bacon. Baked or air-fried to golden perfection, these tenders are addictively good and perfect for dinner or game day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
  • Optional dipping: ranch dressing

Instructions

  • 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
  • 2. Lightly grease a baking sheet or air fryer basket.
  • 3. Place chicken tenders in a bowl and toss with olive oil, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper.
  • 4. Arrange chicken in a single layer.
  • 5. Bake 15–18 minutes (or air fry 10–12 minutes), flipping halfway, until nearly cooked through.
  • 6. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over chicken.
  • 7. Top with crumbled bacon.
  • 8. Return to oven or air fryer for 3–5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • 9. Garnish with green onions and serve hot with ranch dressing if desired.

Notes

  • Use mozzarella or Colby Jack instead of cheddar if preferred.
  • Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for heat.
  • These reheat well in the air fryer.

Nutrition

Keywords: crack chicken tenders, ranch chicken, bacon cheddar chicken