Description
Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, made by seasoning tender chicken with ranch dressing mix, topping with cheddar cheese, and wrapping in bacon before baking to perfection. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 10 fresh chicken tenders, about 1–1/2 pounds
- 1 tablespoon Original Hidden Valley Ranch dressing mix (from the 1 oz package)
- Additional Original Hidden Valley Ranch dressing mix for sprinkling (approximately 1 teaspoon)
Toppings
- 5 (1-oz) cheddar cheese slices, each cut in half (10 halves total)
- 10 slices bacon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375ºF (190ºC) and line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Place a cooking rack on top of the foil-lined sheet to allow even airflow and crispiness for the chicken tenders.
- Season Chicken: Season both sides of each chicken tender evenly with 1 tablespoon of the Original Hidden Valley Ranch dressing mix, ensuring the flavor coats the meat well.
- Assemble Tenders: Place a half slice of cheddar cheese on top of each seasoned chicken tender. Wrap each tender with one slice of bacon, securing the cheese and chicken together.
- Arrange on Rack: Place the wrapped chicken tenders on the prepared cooking rack spaced evenly. Lightly sprinkle the tops with a small amount of additional Ranch dressing mix to enhance flavor.
- Bake: Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until fully cooked, the bacon starts to render fat, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC).
- Broil for Crispiness: Switch the oven to broil and cook the tenders for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let rest a few minutes before serving. Serve hot as a delicious main dish or appetizer.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches safe internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC).
- Feel free to substitute cheddar cheese with pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- For crispier bacon, use thick-cut bacon slices.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer.
