Description
Easy Crack Chicken Tenders are juicy, crispy chicken strips coated in a flavorful mix of ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. Baked or air-fried to golden perfection, they’re the ultimate addictive comfort food that’s simple to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or game day snacking.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil (for baking)
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon.
- Coat each chicken tender first in flour, then dip in egg, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat well.
- Place tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- For baking: lightly spray tenders with cooking spray and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
For air frying: cook for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through. - Sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley before serving if desired.
- Serve hot with ranch dressing or honey mustard for dipping.
Notes
- For extra crunch, mix crushed cornflakes with panko breadcrumbs.
- To make it spicy, add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the coating mix.
- These chicken tenders reheat well in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked or Air-Fried
- Cuisine: American