You got it! Here’s the full guide for **Crack Chicken Tenders** — a mouthwatering, indulgent dish that’s easy to make and totally crowd-pleasing:
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## **Crack Chicken Tenders**
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### **Introduction**
Crack Chicken Tenders are irresistibly addictive — hence the name! These juicy chicken strips are coated in a rich blend of ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a creamy binder (like cream cheese or mayo). Baked or fried to perfection, they’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with bold, savory flavor.
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### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
“Crack Chicken” originated as a viral recipe combining chicken, ranch, bacon, and cheese — all beloved American comfort food staples. The name reflects the dish’s ultra-addictive quality (though it’s more about the flavor than the term itself). Turning it into tenders brings a fun, snackable twist that fits right into game day spreads, party platters, or weeknight dinners.
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### **Ingredients Quantity**
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|—————————–|———————————|
| Chicken tenders (raw) | 1.5 lbs (about 12 pieces) |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 4 oz |
| Mayonnaise (or sour cream) | 2 tbsp |
| Ranch seasoning mix | 1 packet (about 1 oz) |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Cooked bacon (crumbled) | 1/2 cup (4–6 strips) |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Onion powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
| Egg (beaten, for dredging) | 1 (optional) |
| Panko or crushed pork rinds | 1/2 cup (optional for crunch) |
| Oil or cooking spray | As needed (for baking/frying) |
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### **Optional Additions**
– **Hot sauce or red pepper flakes**: For heat.
– **Green onions**: Mixed in or as garnish.
– **Fresh herbs**: Parsley or chives to brighten the richness.
– **Bread crumbs or almond flour**: For a breaded crust.
– **Air-fry version**: For a healthier take with crispy texture.
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### **Tips for Success**
– **Pat Chicken Dry**: Helps coatings stick better.
– **Use Soft Cream Cheese**: Room temp blends easier into the coating.
– **Crispy Bacon**: Adds texture — don’t skip!
– **Preheat Oven or Air Fryer**: For best results and even cooking.
– **Flip Halfway**: To brown both sides evenly if baking or air frying.
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### **Instructions**
1. **Prep Chicken**: Pat tenders dry with paper towels and lightly season with salt and pepper.
2. **Mix Topping**: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, mayo, ranch mix, garlic powder, onion powder, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon until smooth.
3. **Coat Tenders**: Spread a thick layer of the mixture onto each chicken tender. Optional: dip in beaten egg and then panko or crushed pork rinds for crunch.
4. **Bake or Fry**:
– **Bake**: Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).
– **Air Fry**: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes.
– **Pan Fry**: Heat oil in skillet over medium heat. Cook tenders for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked.
5. **Rest and Serve**: Let cool slightly. Serve hot with ranch, honey mustard, or on a sandwich.
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### **Description**
These tenders are everything you love about crack chicken — creamy, cheesy, savory, and smoky — packed into handheld strips. The outside can be crispy or creamy depending on preparation, while the inside stays juicy and flavorful. They’re indulgent, bold, and downright addictive.
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### **Nutritional Information** *(Per Tender – based on 12 servings)*
– **Calories**: ~210
– **Protein**: 18g
– **Fat**: 14g
– **Carbs**: 2–5g (depending on coating)
– **Fiber**: <1g
– **Sodium**: ~400mg
*Nutrition varies based on cooking method and additional toppings.*
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### **Conclusion**
Crack Chicken Tenders are the ultimate feel-good, flavor-packed dish. Whether you're serving them as an appetizer, lunch, or main course, they're guaranteed to disappear fast. Simple to make and loaded with creamy, cheesy, bacon-y goodness, they’ve earned their viral reputation for a reason.
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### **Recommendation**
Serve them with:
– A dipping trio: ranch, BBQ, and buffalo
– Over a salad for a low-carb meal
– In a wrap or sandwich
– With sweet potato fries or coleslaw for balance
Perfect for game nights, gatherings, or just when you're craving a serious flavor hit.
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### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
Make it lighter by:
– Using reduced-fat cheese and cream cheese
– Baking or air frying instead of pan-frying
– Subbing Greek yogurt for mayo
– Skipping the breading for a low-carb, keto-friendly version
– Pairing with a green salad or roasted veggies
You can still indulge in bold flavor while keeping things balanced!
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Let me know if you'd like a printable version, meal prep tips, or even a kid-friendly version of this recipe!