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Close-up handheld photo of Crack Chicken Tenders with bubbling melted cheese and scallions.

Crack Chicken Tenders (Crispy, Loaded & Addictive!)

These Crack Chicken Tenders are ultra-crispy fried chicken strips loaded with melted orange cheddar, crunchy bacon, and creamy ranch. A viral Pinterest-favorite dinner that is perfectly seasoned and ready in just 40 minutes.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 580
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Recipe Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs (680g) Chicken Tenderloins Pat dry before breading
  • 2 cups (250g) All-Purpose Flour Divided for dredging
  • 1/2 cup (64g) Cornstarch For extra crispiness
  • 2 tbsp (28g) Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix Store-bought or homemade
  • 2 large Eggs Beaten with 2 tbsp water
  • 2 cups (226g) Sharp Orange Cheddar Freshly grated
  • 8 slices Bacon Fried and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) Creamy Ranch Dressing For drizzling
  • 3 whole Scallions Thinly sliced rounds

Equipment

  • 1 Cast Iron Skillet 12-inch preferred for heat retention
  • 1 Digital Meat Thermometer To ensure 165°F internal temperature
  • 1 Wire Cooling Rack Prevents sogginess after frying

Method
 

Preparation and Frying
  1. Coat chicken in flour, then egg wash, then the ranch-flour-cornstarch mixture. Press firmly to create craggy bits.
  2. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden-brown and crispy. Internal temp should be 160°F.
  3. Place tenders on a baking sheet. Top with cheddar and broil for 1-2 minutes until bubbled and melted.
  4. Top with bacon bits, drizzle with ranch dressing, and scatter green scallions over the top. Serve immediately.

Notes

Always grate your own cheese for the best melt.
Use a wire rack to drain chicken to keep the bottom crispy.