Crack Chicken Tenders

Get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe list! These Crack Chicken Tenders are everything you want in a chicken dish crispy, juicy, and packed with a unique blend of flavors. They’re called “Crack Chicken Tenders” for a reason; one bite and you’ll be hooked!

With a crunchy Ritz cracker coating, savory Parmesan cheese, and a hint of ranch seasoning, these chicken tenders are the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for a quick dinner, a party appetizer, or even a game-day snack, they’re easy to make and sure to impress.

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Why You’ll Love These Crack Chicken Tenders

1. Family-Friendly: These tenders are a hit with kids and adults alike.
2. Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients on hand.
3. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and a short baking time, this recipe is great for busy weeknights.
4. Packed with Flavor: The combination of Parmesan, ranch seasoning, and Ritz crackers creates an irresistible taste and crunch.

Ingredients for Crack Chicken Tenders

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious tenders:

• 1 lb chicken tenders – Boneless, skinless chicken tenders work best, but you can also cut chicken breasts into strips.
• ½ cup mayonnaise – Adds moisture and helps bind the coating to the chicken, keeping it juicy.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, umami flavor that pairs perfectly with the ranch seasoning.
• 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix – The star of this recipe, it adds a savory, herby kick.
• ½ tsp garlic powder – Boosts the flavor with a touch of garlicky goodness.
• ½ tsp onion powder – Enhances the overall flavor, giving a subtle savory depth.
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers – The secret to a golden, crunchy coating.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crack Chicken Tenders

Ready to dive in? Follow these steps for a perfectly crispy and flavorful result.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

1. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C): Preheating is essential for even cooking. A hot oven helps to crisp up the coating while keeping the chicken juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating Mixture

1. Combine the mayo, Parmesan, and seasonings: In a medium bowl, mix the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until everything is well combined.
   • Tip: The mayonnaise not only adds moisture but also binds the coating to the chicken, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Crush the Ritz Crackers

1. Crush the crackers: Place the Ritz crackers in a resealable plastic bag and crush them into small crumbs. You can use a rolling pin or even your hands.
   • Tip: For a more even texture, use a food processor to pulse the crackers a few times. Just be careful not to turn them into powder you want a bit of texture for a crunchy coating.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

1. Prepare the chicken: Take each chicken tender and dip it into the mayo mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated on all sides.
2. Dredge in crushed Ritz crackers: After coating with the mayo mixture, roll the chicken in the crushed crackers, pressing gently to help the crumbs stick.

Tip: Don’t skimp on the coating! Make sure each tender is fully covered with crackers for that irresistible crunch.

Step 5: Arrange and Bake

1. Arrange on a baking sheet: Place each coated chicken tender on a baking sheet. For best results, line the sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tenders are golden and cooked through.

• Note: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Tips for Making the Best Crack Chicken Tenders

1. Keep the Chicken Juicy: The mayonnaise not only adds flavor but also keeps the tenders juicy. If you prefer, you can use Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative.
2. Get Creative with Seasoning: Feel free to add a pinch of paprika, cayenne, or dried herbs like parsley or thyme to the coating mixture for an extra flavor boost.
3. Serve Fresh from the Oven: These chicken tenders are best enjoyed right out of the oven while the coating is at its crispiest.
4. Customize the Coating: For added flavor, try using a mix of Ritz crackers and panko breadcrumbs. The panko will add even more crunch to the coating.

Delicious Dipping Sauces

These Crack Chicken Tenders are perfect on their own, but a good dipping sauce can make them even more fun to eat! Here are a few ideas:

• Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that pairs perfectly with the ranch seasoning in the coating.
• Honey Mustard: The tangy sweetness complements the savory Parmesan and crackers.
• Buffalo Sauce: For a spicy kick, try dipping these tenders in Buffalo sauce.
• BBQ Sauce: A sweet, smoky BBQ sauce adds a tasty contrast to the salty, cheesy coating.

Serving Suggestions for Crack Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• Family Dinner: Serve with a side of mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
• Party Appetizer: Arrange them on a platter with a few dipping sauces for an easy party snack.
• Kid-Friendly Meal: Pair with sweet potato fries and carrot sticks for a fun, nutritious dinner that kids will love.
• Game Day Snack: Perfect for sharing! Add them to your game-day spread with nachos, sliders, and wings for an ultimate snack lineup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Cracker?

Yes! If you don’t have Ritz crackers, try using crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or even plain potato chips. Each option adds a slightly different texture and flavor.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Place any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Can I Make These Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer?

Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the coated tenders in a single layer for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll come out crispy and delicious!

Can I Prep These in Advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken tenders through the coating step, then refrigerate them on a baking sheet for up to a day before baking. When you’re ready, simply pop them in the oven and bake as directed.

Conclusion: Crispy, Flavorful Crack Chicken Tenders You’ll Love

These Crack Chicken Tenders are more than just a recipe they’re an experience. With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients, you’ll have tender, crispy chicken bursting with flavor. The combination of Parmesan, ranch seasoning, and Ritz crackers creates a golden coating that’s both crunchy and savory.

Whether you’re making these tenders for a quick family dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast! So go ahead and make a batch you’ll quickly see why they’re called “crack” chicken tenders.