Easy Crack Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat Oven or Prepare Fryer

• For baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• For air frying: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Make the Creamy Coating

1. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar, and crumbled bacon.
2. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
2. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken tender.

Step 4: Coat with Crunch

1. Place crushed Ritz crackers or panko in a shallow dish.
2. Roll each coated chicken strip in the crumbs, pressing gently to stick.

Step 5: Bake or Fry

• Bake: Arrange on the prepared baking sheet, drizzle with melted butter, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crispy.
• Air Fry: Spray with cooking oil and air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Pan Fry: Shallow fry in a skillet over medium heat with 2–3 tbsp oil, about 3–4 minutes per side.

Step 6: Serve

• Serve hot with ranch or honey mustard for dipping.
• Garnish with extra bacon crumbles or chopped parsley.

Tips & Variations

• Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Use parmesan cheese mixed with cheddar for a deeper flavor.
• Turn it into a meal: Serve with garlic mashed potatoes or a crisp salad.