What Is “Crack Chicken”?
The term “crack chicken” refers to a combination of ranch seasoning, bacon, cheese, and creaminess — usually mixed with shredded chicken or used to coat whole cuts. In this version, we’re turning it into crispy, juicy tenders that are packed with flavor.
Classic Crack Chicken Tenders (Oven-Baked)
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1½ lbs chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 5 strips)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1½ cups crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (optional for crisping)
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
Prep:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, and ranch seasoning. Mix well.
- In another bowl, beat the egg.
- In a shallow dish, place crushed crackers or panko.
Assemble:
- Pat chicken tenders dry. Dip each tender into the egg, then coat with the cream cheese mixture, and finally roll in cracker crumbs until fully coated.
- Place coated tenders on the baking sheet. Lightly drizzle with olive oil or melted butter (optional but helps crisp).
Bake:
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
Finish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Air Fryer Version
- Follow the same preparation steps, but air fry at 375°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping once.
- Spray tenders lightly with cooking spray before cooking to help them crisp.
- Result: super crispy outside, juicy inside!
Low-Carb/Keto Version
Swap out a few ingredients:
- Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour instead of Ritz or breadcrumbs.
- Use sugar-free ranch seasoning (some store-bought mixes contain sugar).
- Ensure bacon is free of sugar/glaze.
Carbs drop from ~10–15g per serving to under 3g net carbs.
Variations
Spicy Crack Chicken Tenders
- Add 1 tsp cayenne or chipotle powder to the cracker coating or ranch mix.
- Serve with a spicy ranch dip.
Extra Cheesy Version
- Add mozzarella to the cheddar mix.
- Top with melted cheese after baking for gooey perfection.
Garlic-Parmesan Crack Chicken Tenders
- Add 2 cloves minced garlic to cream cheese mix.
- Swap cheddar for shredded parmesan or do half-and-half.
Serving Suggestions
- Dips: Ranch, spicy mayo, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or sriracha aioli.
- Sides: Waffle fries, coleslaw, roasted veggies, or garlic mashed potatoes.
- For kids: Serve with mac & cheese or sliced cucumbers and ranch.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked tenders for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Air fryer or oven for 10 minutes at 375°F (keeps them crispy).
Quick Tips
- Use softened cream cheese — it spreads easier for coating.
- Pound chicken tenders slightly thinner for even cooking.
- Use a wire rack on your baking tray for even crisping.