Description
Crack Chicken Tenders are a mouthwatering, irresistible chicken dish coated in a rich, creamy sauce that combines bacon, cheese, ranch seasoning, and a touch of spice. These tenders are quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. With a crispy exterior and a juicy, cheesy, bacon-filled interior, these tenders are sure to become a family favorite. They’re perfect for a weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a game-day snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders, thawed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Crack Chicken Sauce:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
- ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for a kick)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Ingredient Highlights
- Chicken Tenders: The lean, tender cuts of chicken make for a quick-cooking base that remains juicy and delicious.
- Cream Cheese: Adds a creamy richness to the sauce, ensuring a smooth, indulgent coating on the chicken.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon bits add smoky flavor and crunch, creating the irresistible “crack” element of this dish.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melty cheddar brings a comforting, cheesy depth to the sauce.
- Ranch Seasoning: The ranch seasoning blend enhances the flavor with its mix of herbs and spices, bringing everything together.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the Crack Chicken Sauce:
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add Bacon and Cheese: Stir in the chopped bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise. If you like some heat, add a teaspoon of hot sauce. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Coat the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken tenders to the skillet, tossing them gently in the sauce to coat them evenly. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes until it’s heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the crack chicken tenders to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite side dish or dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 400-450 kcal
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 40g