Description
These crispy chicken tenders are topped with melted cheddar, ranch, and bacon for a cheesy, flavor-packed dish the whole family will love.
Ingredients
1½ lbs chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 cup panko or regular breadcrumbs
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 large eggs
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup cooked bacon, chopped
⅓ cup ranch dressing
2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives (optional)
Olive oil or cooking spray (if baking)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If frying, heat oil in a skillet over medium-high.
Season breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Whisk eggs in a bowl. Dip each chicken strip into egg, then coat with seasoned breadcrumbs.
If baking: Arrange chicken on prepared sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway.
If frying: Cook tenders in hot oil 3–4 minutes per side until crispy and golden.
Mix ranch, cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, and green onions in a bowl.
Once chicken is cooked, spoon cheese mixture on top and return to oven (or cover skillet) for 2–3 minutes, just until melted.
Serve hot, with extra ranch if desired.
Notes
Swap breadcrumbs with crushed Ritz or cornflakes for extra crunch.
Use spicy ranch or add hot sauce for more heat.
Make it a sandwich by stuffing into buns with lettuce and pickles.
Air fry at 390°F for 10–12 minutes, flip, then melt cheese topping for 2 more minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Baked, Fried, or Air-Fried
- Cuisine: American
