Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe
Crack Chicken Tenders are a flavorful, cheesy baked chicken dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy ranch and cream cheese mixture, topped with bacon bits and cheddar cheese. Perfect as a main course or appetizer, this easy recipe delivers a deliciously satisfying low-carb meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course / Appetizer
- Method: Baked / Air-Fried
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenders
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
Creamy Mixture
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Toppings and Garnishes
- ½ cup cooked bacon bits
- 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Make Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well blended into a creamy, flavorful mixture.
- Prep Chicken: Arrange the chicken tenders evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush the tenders with olive oil or spray them with cooking spray to keep them moist during baking.
- Spread Mixture: Spoon the cream cheese mixture over each chicken tender, spreading it evenly to cover the tops fully.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon bits generously over the cream cheese layer on each tender.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the toppings are golden and bubbly.
- Garnish: Remove from oven and top with chopped green onions if desired. Serve the crack chicken tenders hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For dietary variations, substitute turkey bacon or plant-based bacon.
- Try air frying at 375°F for 12–15 minutes for an extra crispy texture.
- Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with keto-friendly sides like cauliflower mash or a fresh salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4 oz chicken with toppings)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: crack chicken tenders, keto chicken, bacon ranch chicken, cheesy chicken tenders, low carb baked chicken
Find it online: https://kitchenwithkai.com/crack-chicken-tenders-recipe/
