Homestyle Crack Chicken Tenders: Flavorful & Quick (Print Version)

Homestyle Crack Chicken Tenders are a flavorful, quick dinner. Tender chicken in a creamy, savory sauce, baked to crispy perfection. Easy family meal!

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: High Protein

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 1.5 lbs chicken tenders
02 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
04 - 1/4 cup chicken broth

→ Flavor Boosters

05 - 8 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled (reserve some for garnish)

→ Crispy Coating

06 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

→ Finishing Touches

07 - 2 tbsp fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, get that oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). While it's warming up, grab your chicken tenders. I always give them a quick pat dry with paper towels; it helps with texture, I swear. Lay them out in a single layer in a baking dish. I usually use a 9x13, but whatever fits your tenders without overcrowding is good. This step is basic, but important, don't skip the pat-dry!
02 - Now for the good stuff! In a medium bowl, combine your softened cream cheese, that magical ranch seasoning packet, and a little chicken broth. Whisk it all together until it's smooth and creamy. You want it spreadable, not chunky. If your cream cheese is still a bit cold, a quick 15-second zap in the microwave can help, but don't overdo it or it'll get soupy. I once had a lumpy sauce, and honestly, it just wasn't the same.
03 - Once your sauce is smooth, gently fold in most of your crumbled crispy bacon. Save a little bit for sprinkling on top later, because who doesn't love extra bacon? Stir it in until it's evenly distributed. The smell at this stage is already making my mouth water, it’s that classic savory, smoky goodness that defines these Crack Chicken Tenders.
04 - Spoon that glorious, creamy bacon-ranch mixture over your chicken tenders in the baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure each tender is nicely coated. Don't be shy! You want a good layer of that flavor. Sometimes I get a little messy here, with sauce on the sides of the dish, but hey, that’s real cooking, right? Just try to cover them well.
05 - Now, sprinkle that shredded cheddar cheese generously over the coated chicken. Make sure it's a nice, even layer – this is going to get bubbly and golden. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to be cooked through (165°F internal temperature) and the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. The kitchen will smell incredible, I promise!
06 - Once the chicken is cooked, pull it out of the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes; this lets the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken tender. Sprinkle with your reserved crispy bacon and those fresh chives or parsley. It just adds that final touch of freshness and a little extra crunch. Serve these Homestyle Crack Chicken Tenders warm and watch them disappear!

# Notes:

01 - My secret for extra tender chicken? Don't overbake! Use a meat thermometer if you're unsure, pulling them right at 165°F makes all the difference.
02 - These are fantastic for meal prep! Just let them cool completely, then portion them into airtight containers. They reheat beautifully in the microwave or a toaster oven for quick lunches.
03 - If you're out of ranch seasoning, a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper can work in a pinch. It's not *exactly* the same, but it gets you close.
04 - A little extra sprinkle of fresh cracked black pepper right before serving really enhances the savory notes.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - 9x13 inch baking dish
02 - mixing bowls
03 - whisk
04 - measuring cups and spoons

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 30g
Total Carbohydrate: 8g
Protein: 35g

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