Crack Chicken Tenders

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Crack Chicken Tenders: Crispy, Cheesy & Addictively Delicious

These Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor—coated in a crunchy, seasoned breading with cheese, ranch seasoning, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a family-friendly meal, game-day snack, or a quick dinner, they’re guaranteed to be irresistibly addictive!

Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and watch them disappear in minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Ultra-Crispy Coating – Crunchy outside, juicy inside.
✔ Loaded with Flavor – Ranch seasoning and cheese make them irresistible.
✔ Oven, Air Fryer, or Deep-Fried Options – Choose your favorite cooking method.
✔ Kid-Friendly & Perfect for Parties – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
✔ Better Than Fast Food – Homemade, fresh, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

To make these crispy, cheesy crack chicken tenders, you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

  • 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Breading:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 oz)
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

For the Egg Wash:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk

For Frying or Baking:

  • Oil for frying (if deep-frying or pan-frying)
  • Cooking spray (for air fryer or oven)

How to Make Crack Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Season the Chicken

  • Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel.
  • Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

  1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, panko breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, and cayenne pepper.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat eggs and milk together.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

  1. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, coating evenly.
  2. Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Option 1: Deep Fryer or Pan Frying (Crispiest Method)

  1. Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry chicken tenders for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
  3. Drain on a paper towel.

Option 2: Air Fryer (Healthier, Still Crispy)

  1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spray breaded chicken tenders with cooking spray.
  3. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Option 3: Baked (Healthiest Option)

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place tenders on a lined baking sheet and spray with oil.
  3. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

  • Let chicken tenders cool for a few minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with chopped chives or parsley.
  • Serve with ranch, honey mustard, BBQ, or spicy mayo for dipping!

Serving Suggestions

🍟 With Fries or Onion Rings – Classic crispy pairing.
🥗 With a Side Salad – Balance the richness with fresh greens.
🍞 In a Sandwich or Wrap – Add to a bun with lettuce and sauce.
🍯 Drizzled with Honey – Sweet and savory perfection!

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze breaded (uncooked) tenders for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Air fry or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5–8 minutes until crispy.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

These Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor—a better-than-takeout meal that’s easy to make and totally addictive! Whether you’re making them for a quick dinner, party snack, or game-day treat, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

Try this irresistible chicken tenders recipe today and enjoy every crunchy, juicy bite!

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