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Crack Chicken Tenders

Crack Chicken Tenders
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Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy on the outside and stuffed or coated with a cheesy, creamy, smoky bacon and ranch-flavored filling on the inside. This comfort-food favorite offers a perfect balance of cheesy, savory, and smoky flavors with a satisfying crunchy texture. It’s easy to prepare, family-friendly, and versatile, making it an unforgettable dish for weeknight dinners, parties, or game day snacks.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Garlic powder, 1 tsp
  • Onion powder, 1 tsp

Filling

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tbsp ranch seasoning
  • 1/2 cup bacon bits (cooked crispy bacon, chopped)

Cooking

  • Olive oil or butter, for frying or baking

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken tenders evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to build a flavorful foundation.
  2. Mix the Creamy Filling: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, and crispy bacon bits until smooth and well blended.
  3. Stuff or Coat the Tenders: Either slice the chicken tenders open and stuff them with the creamy cheese mixture, securing with toothpicks if needed, or spread the mixture evenly on top of the tenders. Both methods work well.
  4. Cook to Perfection: Fry in olive oil or butter until golden and crispy on the outside, about 15-20 minutes, or bake at 400°F for 20 minutes until cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Serve Hot and Enjoy: Allow the tenders to rest a few minutes after cooking so the cheesy filling settles inside, making every bite perfect.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling blend.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when frying to ensure even crispiness and cooking.
  • Pat chicken tenders dry before seasoning to achieve a crispier crust.
  • Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and juiciness.
  • Let tenders rest before cutting to prevent filling from leaking.
  • For extra crispiness, double coat tenders by dipping in egg and breadcrumbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crack Chicken Tenders, cheesy chicken tenders, bacon chicken, crispy chicken, comfort food, family-friendly appetizer

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/crack-chicken-tenders/