Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

Introduction

Crack Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food—a deliciously cheesy, savory, and crispy dish perfect for weeknight dinners, meal preps, or party appetizers. With juicy chicken tenders coated in a creamy cheddar and Greek yogurt blend, topped with crispy turkey bacon, and seasoned with spices, this dish is packed with irresistible flavors. Simple and quick to prepare, it’s guaranteed to be a family favorite.

Overview of the Recipe

This recipe combines the tender texture of chicken with a creamy cheese topping, seasoned to perfection. The addition of crispy turkey bacon provides a crunch and smokiness, while green onions add a fresh burst of flavor. Crack Chicken Tenders are baked to achieve a gooey and satisfying bite without the mess of frying, making them both flavorful and healthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and easy to make with minimal prep and cooking time.
• Loaded with protein and great for low-carb diets.
• Customizable with variations to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for parties, meal prep, or a fun family dinner.

History and Origin

The name “Crack Chicken” stems from the addictive combination of cheese, creamy dressing, and bacon, commonly used in casseroles and dips. This style of dish originated as a comfort food staple in American cuisine, becoming popular for its crowd-pleasing flavors. Over time, variations like Crack Chicken Tenders have evolved, offering the same irresistible flavors in a finger-food format.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Crack Chicken Tenders:

• 1 pound chicken tenders: Tender cuts of chicken, perfect for quick cooking.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For depth of flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle, savory touch.
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika: For a smoky hint and mild heat.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: A sharp and gooey cheese for the topping.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt: For creaminess and tangy flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For seasoning balance.
• 1 cup crushed turkey bacon (pre-cooked): Provides a crispy and smoky topping.
• 1/4 cup green onions (chopped, optional): A fresh garnish for flavor and color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

• In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (choose Greek yogurt for a healthier option).
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder.
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
• Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

3. Coat the Chicken

• Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
• Using a spoon or spatula, spread an even layer of the cheese mixture over each chicken tender, ensuring full coverage.

4. Add the Turkey Bacon

• Sprinkle crushed turkey bacon generously over the cheese-coated chicken tenders.
• Gently press the turkey bacon into the cheese mixture so it adheres well.

5. Bake

• Place the baking sheet in the oven.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken tenders are cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. Garnish and Serve

• Remove the chicken tenders from the oven.
• For added flavor and a pop of color, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top (optional).
• Serve immediately while warm.

Serving Suggestions

These Crack Chicken Tenders are versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• Low-carb options: Serve with steamed broccoli, cauliflower rice, or a fresh garden salad.
• Classic comfort sides: Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or mac and cheese.
• Snack or appetizer style: Offer with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.

Variations of the Recipe

1. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the cheese mixture for a spicier version.
2. Herbaceous Flavor: Mix fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill into the cheese mixture.
3. Keto-Friendly: Use full-fat Greek yogurt and omit any high-carb sides for a keto-friendly meal.
4. Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a twist on flavors.
5. Air Fryer Option: Cook the tenders in an air fryer at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through for extra crispiness.

Health Benefits Notes

This recipe is not only delicious but also comes with nutritional benefits:

• High in Protein: Chicken tenders and turkey bacon are excellent sources of lean protein, supporting muscle health.
• Low in Carbs: Perfect for those on low-carb or keto diets.
• Rich in Calcium: Cheddar cheese contributes calcium for bone health.
• Customizable Nutritional Profile: Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise reduces the fat content while adding probiotics.

FAQs

1. Can I make Crack Chicken Tenders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken with the cheese mixture and turkey bacon topping, then store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze Crack Chicken Tenders?

Absolutely. Freeze uncooked or cooked tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking.

3. What can I use instead of turkey bacon?

For a different flavor, try beef bacon or vegetarian bacon alternatives.

4. How do I ensure the chicken stays moist?

Avoid overbaking. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature, removing it from the oven as soon as it reaches 165°F.

5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute dairy-free cheese and mayonnaise alternatives to accommodate dietary needs.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Tenders are a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for satisfying comfort food cravings while keeping things healthy and easy. Packed with juicy chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and creamy cheese, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re hosting a party, meal prepping for the week, or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these tenders are a must-try. With endless pairing options and simple ingredient swaps, you can customize the dish to suit any taste or dietary preference.

Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

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• Author: Wendy Balderas
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Crack Chicken Tenders are juicy chicken strips coated in a creamy cheddar mixture, topped with crispy turkey bacon, and baked to perfection. They’re quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for low-carb and high-protein meals.

 

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup crushed turkey bacon (pre-cooked)
• 1/4 cup green onions (chopped, optional)

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line or grease a baking sheet.
• In a bowl, mix cheddar cheese, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper until smooth.
• Place chicken tenders on the baking sheet and evenly spread the cheese mixture on top.
• Sprinkle crushed turkey bacon over the coated chicken and press gently to adhere.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Garnish with green onions if desired and serve warm.

Notes

• Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked perfectly.
• For crispier turkey bacon, lightly pan-fry it before crushing.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 590mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 95mg