The Crunchiest Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe Ever

Weeknight dinners just got a delicious upgrade with these irresistible crack chicken tenders that promise maximum flavor and minimal effort.

The secret ingredient hidden in crack chicken tenders creates an addictive crunch that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Packed with zesty seasoning and a perfectly crispy exterior, these tenders deliver a mouthwatering experience that turns an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.

Tender chicken meets a golden, crunchy coating that seals in all the juicy goodness.

Each bite bursts with savory notes that dance across your palate, making dinner feel like a celebration.

Who can resist a protein-packed dish that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying?

You’ll want to add this recipe to your weekly rotation and watch as it becomes an instant family favorite.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 493 kcal

Servings: 5

Crack Chicken Tender Ingredient Lineup

• Chicken Tenders: Select fresh, uniform-sized tenders for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
• Olive Oil: Helps seasoning stick and ensures golden, crispy exterior with rich moisture.

• Ranch Seasoning: Delivers tangy, herbal punch that transforms ordinary chicken into a crave-worthy dish.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds creamy, sharp texture and creates irresistible melted golden crust.
• Crumbled Bacon: Introduces smoky, salty crunch that elevates the entire flavor profile.

• Green Onions: Provides bright, mild onion freshness and vibrant color contrast to complete the dish.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients for this Crack Chicken Tenders recipe?

The key ingredients are chicken tenders, ranch seasoning, olive oil, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. These create the signature flavor and texture that makes the dish irresistible.

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, these chicken tenders are great for meal prep. You can prepare them in advance and store them in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. They reheat well in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! You can slice chicken breasts into tender-sized pieces if you don’t have chicken tenders. Just ensure they’re cut evenly for consistent cooking and adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

• How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165F (75C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and remains juicy and tender.

Tools to Bread and Bake Crack Chicken Tenders

• Baking Sheet: Essential for even cooking and easy cleanup.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Large Bowl: Perfect for tossing chicken with oil and seasoning.
• Measuring Spoons: Helps accurately measure ranch seasoning.
• Cheese Grater: Optional, if using block cheese instead of pre-shredded.
• Sharp Knife: Useful for chopping green onions as garnish.
• Instant-Read Thermometer: Ensures chicken is cooked safely to correct temperature.

Step-by-Step Guide for Chicken Tenders with Punch

• Fire Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a sizzling 400F. Grab a baking sheet and give it a quick spray or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

• Massage The Chicken

Drizzle olive oil over chicken tenders and sprinkle ranch seasoning. Toss everything together until each tender is coated with flavor.

• Create A Cheesy Bacon Canvas

Spread the seasoned tenders on the baking sheet. Generously shower them with shredded cheddar and crispy bacon crumbles.

• Bake To Perfection

Slide the sheet into the hot oven. Let the chicken cook for 15-20 minutes until it’s fully cooked and the cheese turns into a golden, bubbly blanket.

• Add The Finishing Touch

Sprinkle some fresh green onions on top for a pop of color and extra zing. Serve immediately while everything is hot and delicious.

Tweaks for More Heat, Crunch, or Seasoning

• Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure crispy edges and better ranch seasoning absorption.
• Replace ranch seasoning with a homemade low-carb spice blend using garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and salt for a keto-friendly version.
• Prepare chicken tenders in advance and store in refrigerator for up to 3 days, making weeknight dinners super quick and easy.
• Swap cheddar cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for a lactose-free twist that still delivers incredible flavor.
• Add red pepper flakes or cayenne powder to the ranch seasoning for an extra kick of heat that transforms the dish into a zesty experience.

Chicken Tender Serving Suggestions for Any Crowd

• Ranch Dip Delight: Create a creamy ranch dip by mixing sour cream, additional ranch seasoning, and a splash of hot sauce for extra kick. Perfect for dunking those crispy chicken tenders.
• Loaded Salad Topper: Chop the tenders into bite-sized pieces and scatter over a crisp green salad. Drizzle with ranch dressing and sprinkle extra bacon bits for a hearty, protein-packed meal.
• Game Day Slider Hack: Slice the tenders and nestle them into soft dinner rolls with a dollop of ranch and extra melted cheese. These mini sandwiches are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
• Meal Prep: Prepare extra tenders and store in airtight containers for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week. They reheat beautifully and stay juicy and flavorful.

Store and Reheat Tenders Out

• Enjoy these tangy chicken tenders fresh from the oven or prep them ahead for quick weeknight dinners. They're perfect when you need a speedy, crowd-pleasing meal.
• Store leftover tenders in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350F to maintain crispiness and prevent drying out the chicken.
• Wrap cooled tenders individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They'll stay delicious for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Chop bacon and shred cheese in advance to cut down on day-of cooking time. Mix seasoning mix beforehand and store in a sealed container for quick assembly when hunger strikes.

Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe

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4.7 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent chicken saltimbocca brings Italian culinary magic straight from Roman kitchens onto your dinner plate. Prosciutto and sage dance together, creating a symphony of flavors that elevates simple ingredients into an elegant masterpiece you’ll savor with pure delight.

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Ingredients

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Chicken Saltimbocca

Main Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to ½-inch thickness)
• 4 slices prosciutto

Cheese and Herbs:

• 4 slices fontina cheese (or mozzarella or provolone)
• 8 fresh sage leaves

Cooking and Seasoning Ingredients:

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for dusting)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons (¼ cup) unsalted butter
• ½ cup dry white wine
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken cutlets by gently seasoning with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage across the surface.
2. Layer a delicate slice of prosciutto over each seasoned cutlet, carefully pressing two fresh sage leaves onto the cured meat.
3. Crown the prosciutto with a thin slice of your preferred cheese, creating a flavorful topping.
4. Lightly dust the bare side of the chicken with a fine coating of flour, avoiding the prosciutto-covered surface.
5. Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat, combining olive oil and butter to create a rich cooking medium.
6. Carefully place the prepared chicken into the skillet, positioning the prosciutto side facing upward.
7. Cook each side for approximately 3-4 minutes, allowing the chicken to develop a golden-brown crust and cook thoroughly.
8. Transfer the cooked chicken to a warm plate, preserving its temperature and texture.
9. Deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine, using a wooden spoon to lift the caramelized bits from the pan’s bottom.
10. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce, concentrating its flavors.
11. Pour in chicken broth and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, creating a vibrant pan sauce.
12. Reduce the liquid by half, concentrating the flavors and achieving a slightly thickened consistency.
13. Finish the sauce by whisking in a pat of butter, creating a silky, luxurious texture.
14. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
15. Generously drizzle the sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is beautifully coated.
16. Serve immediately alongside your favorite accompaniments like creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed spinach, or a crisp green salad.

Notes

• Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts of even thickness to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dry or undercooked sections.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help flour adhere better and create a crispy exterior when searing.
• Swap prosciutto with turkey bacon for a lower-fat alternative or use vegetarian cheese for a meat-free version.
• Use fresh sage leaves for maximum flavor, pressing them gently into the prosciutto to help them stick during cooking.
• Avoid overcrowding the skillet to maintain high heat and achieve proper golden-brown caramelization on the chicken.
• Monitor cooking time carefully, as chicken breasts can quickly become tough and dry when overcooked.
• Select a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for deglazing to add subtle complexity to the sauce.
• Quickly whisk cold butter into the sauce off the heat to create a smooth, glossy finish without breaking the emulsion.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg