Crack Chicken Tenders

by

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
  1. In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, ranch seasoning, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika (if using), and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
  1. Pour the buttermilk into a separate shallow bowl.
  2. Dip each chicken tender into the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
  3. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake
  1. Spray or brush the tenders lightly with olive oil or melted butter to enhance crispiness.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Bacon
  1. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over the chicken tenders.
  2. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
  1. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm with ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard for dipping.

Pro Tips

  • Air Fryer Option: Cook the chicken tenders in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, for an even crispier result.
  • Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the buttermilk for a spicy twist.
  • Meal Prep: These tenders reheat well in the oven or air fryer, making them great for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Addictive Flavor: The combination of ranch, cheese, and bacon is downright irresistible.
  • Family-Friendly: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for both kids and adults.
  • Versatile: Enjoy them as a main dish, snack, or appetizer.

Try these Crack Chicken Tenders tonight and watch them disappear in no time! Let me know if you’d like ideas for sides or other variations. 🍗✨🧀

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