Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

Chicken tenders are a favorite comfort food for many, and when they’re made with the right seasoning, crispy coating, and tender meat, they reach a whole new level of irresistible. The Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders take traditional chicken tenders and elevate them with a mixture of tangy ranch seasoning, smoky bacon, and creamy cheese—resulting in an unforgettable dish that’s perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions. These tenders are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor in every bite.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to make Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders, including the history of the dish, detailed instructions, cooking techniques, and creative variations. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will provide clear, easy-to-follow steps to ensure success every time you make it.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients and equipment, it’s time to make the Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders! Follow these detailed steps for perfect results.

Preparing the Chicken Tenders

1. Trim the chicken tenders: If you’re using chicken breasts, slice them into strips about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. If you’re using pre-cut tenders, simply remove them from the packaging and trim any excess fat or tissue.
2. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the tenders generously with salt and pepper.

Preparing the Crack Coating

1. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a shallow bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Set this aside.
2. Create the buttermilk wash: In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk. The buttermilk adds flavor and helps the dry ingredients adhere to the chicken.
3. Create the bacon and ranch mixture: In a third bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, Parmesan cheese, and crumbled bacon. Add in the panko breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese to this mixture and mix well.

Coating the Chicken

1. Dredge the chicken tenders: First, dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
2. Dip in the egg wash: Next, dip the flour-coated chicken tenders into the buttermilk and egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
3. Coat in the bacon and ranch mixture: Finally, roll the chicken tenders in the bacon-ranch breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Be sure to coat all sides for maximum crunch.
4. Rest the chicken: Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet or plate, and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the coating set and adhere to the chicken.

Cooking the Chicken Tenders

You have two options for cooking the tenders: frying or baking. Both methods result in delicious, crispy tenders, but they differ slightly in texture.

Frying:

1. Heat the oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil or canola oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be deep enough to submerge the chicken halfway (about 2 inches of oil).
2. Fry the chicken: Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), carefully add the chicken tenders in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
3. Drain excess oil: Once the chicken tenders are cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a cooling rack or plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Baking:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Bake the chicken: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching. Lightly brush the tops of the tenders with olive oil to encourage crispiness.
3. Bake until golden: Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through, until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Making the Dipping Sauce

1. Mix the ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the ranch dressing, sour cream, hot sauce, lemon juice, and chives. Stir well until smooth and creamy.
2. Taste and adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more hot sauce for spice or more sour cream for creaminess.

Tips for the Perfect Crispy Chicken Tenders

• Dry the chicken: Moisture on the surface of the chicken will prevent the coating from adhering well. Pat the chicken dry before coating it.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Letting the chicken rest for 10 minutes after coating helps the crust stick.
• Fry at the right temperature: Make sure the oil is at 350°F (175°C) before frying the chicken. Too hot, and the coating will burn; too cool, and it will become greasy.
• Coat evenly: Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the chicken to ensure a thick, even coating for maximum crunch.

Possible Variations

• Low-Carb/Keto Version: Replace the panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour to make the dish keto-friendly.
• Spicy Version: Add extra cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture to create a spicier version of the tenders.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of regular panko breadcrumbs.

Side Dish Pairings

• Crispy fries or sweet potato fries
• Coleslaw – A creamy, tangy slaw complements the crispy chicken.
• Roasted vegetables – Seasoned carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli balance the richness of the chicken.

Conclusion

Making Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders at home is an easy way to enjoy a comforting, flavorful dish that’s packed with savory goodness. Whether you fry or bake them, these tenders are sure to be a hit at your next family dinner or party. With their crispy exterior, juicy chicken, and indulgent crack coating, they are truly addictive.

Yield: 4

Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

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Chicken tenders are a favorite comfort food for many, and when they’re made with the right seasoning, crispy coating, and tender meat, they reach a whole new level of irresistible. The Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders take traditional chicken tenders and elevate them with a mixture of tangy ranch seasoning, smoky bacon, and creamy cheese—resulting in an unforgettable dish that’s perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions. These tenders are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor in every bite.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken Tenders:
• 1 lb chicken tenders (about 12 pieces)
• 1 cup crushed cornflakes (or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (dry)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
• For the "Crack" Sauce (Optional, for dipping):
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ranch dressing
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional for a spicy kick)
• 1 tbsp honey (for a slight sweetness)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika

Instructions

1. Prepare the Breading:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• On a large plate or shallow dish, combine the crushed cornflakes, Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• In a separate shallow bowl, beat the eggs.

2. Coat the Chicken:

• Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then coat it thoroughly in the cornflake mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

3. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once hot, add the chicken tenders and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and crispy.

4. Make the Crack Sauce (Optional):

• While the chicken is baking, in a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ranch dressing, hot sauce (if using), honey, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth. Adjust seasonings to taste.

5. Serve:

• Once the chicken tenders are done, remove them from the oven and serve hot with the crack sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

• Variations: You can swap the ranch seasoning mix for other seasoning blends, like Cajun or Italian, for a different flavor profile.
• For Extra Crispiness: If you want extra crispiness, you can add a light drizzle of oil over the chicken tenders before baking, or even cook them in an air fryer for a more "fried" texture.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the chicken tenders and breading ahead of time, storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Serving Suggestions: These tenders go great with a side of fries, a salad, or even on a sandwich with some fresh veggies.