Introduction

Crack Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and creamy dish that’s quick to prepare and sure to satisfy. With a rich ranch seasoning and melted cheddar cheese, these tenders are perfect for a simple dinner or a game-day treat.

A white plate is filled with crispy golden brown chicken tenders stacked unevenly. Each tender shows a crunchy, crumbly texture on the outside with a soft, white meat interior clearly visible where a piece is cut open. Small bits of red bacon and chopped green herbs are sprinkled on top, adding color contrast. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with soft natural light enhancing the warmth of the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 lbs chicken tenders
6 oz cream cheese, softened
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken tenders and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Return the cooked chicken tenders to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Step 4: Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the chicken is heated through.
Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top, remove from heat, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Substitute mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Serve over rice or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Make it gluten-free by confirming your ranch seasoning mix contains no gluten.

Storage

Store leftover Crack Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to prevent the chicken from drying out.

How to Serve

A white plate filled with several golden brown crispy chicken tenders stacked slightly unevenly, showing a crunchy texture with some tenders broken open to reveal white, juicy chicken inside. Small bits of green parsley are sprinkled on top and around the tenders, while some pieces of reddish-brown bacon bits are scattered for added color. The plate is set on a white marbled surface with a soft depth of field, keeping focus on the textured, crispy chicken. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure even browning and proper cooking.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar cheese, and cook the chicken in a non-stick pan with little to no oil.

Creamy Ranch Chicken Tenders Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 139 reviews

These Crack Chicken Tenders are a deliciously creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken coated in a zesty ranch seasoning blend, baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a comforting meal or party appetizer, this recipe combines cream cheese, cheddar, and savory spices for an irresistible, hearty flavor.

Author: Isabella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

1.5 lbs chicken tenders
1 tbsp olive oil

Seasoning & Cheese

6 oz cream cheese, softened
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Instructions

Preheat and prepare chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp well. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken tenders and toss to coat them evenly.
Mix creamy sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until smooth and well blended to create the flavorful ranch cheese mixture.
Assemble the dish: Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in a baking dish. Spread the cream cheese mixture over each chicken tender evenly. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the coated chicken tenders.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Final cheese topping and broil: Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the chicken. Optional: switch the oven to broil and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts completely and forms a golden crust. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle. Serve warm alongside your favorite sides for a hearty, flavorful meal.

Notes

Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture.
If you prefer less rich, substitute half the cream cheese with Greek yogurt, but the flavor will vary slightly.
You can add chopped cooked bacon or green onions for additional flavor and texture.
Make sure the chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature for food safety.
This dish reheats well and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: crack chicken tenders, creamy chicken recipe, baked chicken tenders, ranch chicken, cheesy chicken, easy chicken dinner