Easy Crack Chicken Tenders are a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious meal that’s easy to prepare and loaded with flavor. This recipe uses simple ingredients and a slow cooker to create tender, creamy chicken that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you need a quick dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. With the combination of ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and bacon, these tenders will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 450 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fat: 35 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 850 mg

Why Make This Easy Crack Chicken Tenders

These Easy Crack Chicken Tenders are not only incredibly simple to make but also bursting with flavor. The creamy texture from the cream cheese combined with the smoky, savory bits of bacon creates a delightful taste that everyone will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or game day snacks, this dish is versatile and satisfying. You can serve it as a main entrée, a dip for chips, or pile it high on sandwiches.

How to Make Easy Crack Chicken Tenders

Follow these straightforward steps to create your own Easy Crack Chicken Tenders. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!

Ingredients:

1 pound chicken tenders
1 package ranch seasoning mix
8 ounces cream cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a slow cooker, combine the chicken tenders, ranch seasoning mix, and cream cheese.
Step 2: Cooking

Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 3: Shredding

Once the chicken is done, shred it in the slow cooker using two forks, ensuring it absorbs all the creamy goodness.
Step 4: Finishing

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm on its own, as a dip, or on a sandwich.

How to Serve Easy Crack Chicken Tenders

These tenders are incredibly versatile! You can serve them as a dip with tortilla chips or crackers. For a heartier option, pile the mixture onto toasted sandwich rolls or sliders with some crunchy lettuce and tomato. Pair them with a side salad for a complete meal. No matter how you serve them, they’re sure to be a hit!

How to Store Easy Crack Chicken Tenders

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Crack Chicken Tenders

Don’t rush the cooking process: Slow cooking is key to getting tender chicken. If you’re short on time, you can use a pressure cooker, but the texture may vary.
Customize your seasoning: Experiment with different flavors by adding minced garlic or using a different seasoning blend if you’re out of ranch.
Make it a meal: Serve with fresh veggies for a well-rounded dish or add some cooked pasta for a creamy chicken pasta.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Version: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Healthy Twist: Swap out cream cheese for Greek yogurt and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter version.
Vegetable Boost: Mix in cooked spinach or steamed broccoli for added nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. Just increase the cook time slightly.
What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?
You can use homemade ranch seasoning or a similar seasoning blend like Italian seasoning or taco seasoning.
Is there a way to cook this if I don’t have a slow cooker?
Yes! You can make it on the stovetop by cooking the chicken in a skillet and mixing in the other ingredients afterward.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker the night before and start cooking in the morning.
What should I serve with this dish?
Consider pairing it with crispy potato fries, salad, or carrot sticks for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Easy Crack Chicken Tenders are perfect for anyone looking for a quick, flavorful meal option. With just a handful of ingredients and easy preparation steps, you can create a delicious dish that will keep everyone coming back for more. So gather your ingredients, turn on the slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy this tasty recipe that promises to delight your family and friends. Happy cooking!