Description
Crack Chicken Tenders
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, these crack chicken tenders are the ultimate comfort food! Coated in breadcrumbs, loaded with cheddar, and topped with crispy bacon, they are perfect for any meal!
Ingredients:
2 lbs chicken tenders
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup bacon bits
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt & pepper
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Coat chicken tenders in flour, dip in eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Bake for 20 minutes, then sprinkle cheese and bacon.
Bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown.
Serve hot with a side of dipping sauce!
#GarlicCheeseTenders
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect tenders every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set up three shallow bowls: one with the flour mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; one with the beaten eggs; and one with the panko breadcrumbs. Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel. Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it fully into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the tender firmly into the panko breadcrumbs to ensure an even, generous coating. Place the coated tenders on the baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the sheet from the oven and carefully sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and bacon bits evenly over each tender. Return to the oven for 5-7 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the coating is a deep golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile tenders are a crowd-pleaser on their own but are elevated with the right sides and dips. For a classic pairing, serve with crispy french fries or a fresh garden salad. Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo. For a full meal, place them on a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato to create a decadent sandwich, or slice them and add to a Caesar salad for a protein-packed twist.
How-to Summary
In short: Preheat oven to 375°F. Set up a breading station with seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and panko. Coat each chicken tender in the flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Bake for 20 minutes, top with cheddar and bacon, then bake 5 more minutes until golden and melted. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders? Yes. Slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch thick strips to mimic the size of tenders. Adjust baking time slightly if the pieces are thicker.
Can I make these ahead of time? You can bread the tenders and refrigerate them on the baking sheet for up to 4 hours before baking. For best texture, add cheese and bacon just before the final bake.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness. The microwave will make them soggy.
Can I use real bacon instead of bacon bits? Absolutely! Cook 6-8 strips of bacon until very crispy, then crumble them. Fresh bacon adds superior flavor and texture.
Why are my breadcrumbs not sticking? Ensure you shake off excess flour after the first step and let excess egg drip off. Press the tender firmly into the panko. Chilling the breaded tenders for 15 minutes before baking can also help the coating adhere.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Do not skip drying the chicken; moisture prevents the coating from sticking. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this leads to steaming instead of crisping. Resist the urge to add the cheese and bacon at the beginning, as they will burn. Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking and the right crunch. Finally, let the tenders rest for 5 minutes after baking so the cheese sets slightly, making them easier to handle.
Conclusion
These Crack Chicken Tenders are a guaranteed hit, combining simple techniques with bold, crave-worthy flavors. The process is straightforward, and the result—crispy, cheesy, and bacon-loaded chicken—is utterly irresistible. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day, or feeding a hungry family, this recipe delivers maximum comfort with minimal fuss. Give it a try and watch them disappear!
