If you are on the hunt for a crispy, flavorful, and utterly addictive meal, this Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Each tender is coated in a creamy, tangy mixture combined with the salty crunch of crushed crackers that bake up golden and irresistible. Perfectly seasoned with Ranch, Parmesan, and a hint of garlic and onion powder, these tenders deliver a delightful punch of flavor that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re feeding the family or serving at a casual gathering, these chicken tenders will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple yet essential, the ingredients for this recipe come together to create a perfect balance of creaminess, crunch, and flavor. Each item plays a crucial role in transforming ordinary chicken tenders into something spectacularly delicious.
- 1 lb. chicken tenders: The star of the dish, tender and juicy perfect for coating.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and helps the seasonings stick perfectly to the chicken.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty flavor that enhances the crispy crust.
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix: Infuses the chicken with that classic tangy herb blend everyone loves.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: A subtle punch of savory goodness that warms every bite.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Complements the garlic by adding depth and sweetness to the coating.
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers: Creates the perfect buttery, crunchy exterior that makes you say “wow.”
How to Make Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your tenders bake evenly and come off the tray without sticking, leaving you with a perfect crispy finish every time.
Step 2: Whip Up the Flavorful Coating
In a mixing bowl, blend together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy blend is what makes the Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe so addictively flavorful and helps everything stick beautifully to the chicken.
Step 3: Coat Each Chicken Tender
Dip each chicken tender into the mayo mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then dredge it in the crushed Ritz crackers, pressing lightly so the crumbs adhere well. This double-layer gives the tenders their signature crunchy and flavorful crust.
Step 4: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Place the coated tenders on your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. This spacing is key for air to circulate around the tenders as they bake, helping them crisp up perfectly all around.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Juicy
Bake the tenders for 20 to 25 minutes or until they become a gorgeous golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This final step ensures juicy chicken inside with that coveted crunchy exterior we’re aiming for.
How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these chicken tenders, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. A light drizzle of hot sauce or a side of tangy ranch dip can also complement the savory flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
These tenders love company. Serve them alongside crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, or some creamy coleslaw for a well-rounded meal that balances flavors and textures perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn the Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe into sliders with mini buns and some melted cheese. You could also chop them up and toss into a wrap or salad to add irresistible crunch and flavor wherever you need it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making them a perfect quick meal solution during busy weeks.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked tenders by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freezing until firm. Transfer them to a freezer bag or container and they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Freeze uncooked tenders coated in the cracker mix separately if you want to bake fresh later.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 10 minutes to bring back that crispy crust. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Slice chicken breasts into strips roughly the same size as tenders, then follow the same coating and baking steps for equally delicious results.
What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?
If you don’t have Ritz crackers on hand, crushed buttery crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed cornflakes make great alternatives to achieve a crispy crust.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not unless you add spicy elements like cayenne pepper or hot sauce. The original Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe is savory and tangy with mild flavors, making it great for all ages.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, air frying works wonderfully! Cook the tenders at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through for crispy, evenly cooked tenders.
How do I get the coating to stick better?
Make sure each tender is fully coated in the mayonnaise mixture before pressing into the crushed crackers. Patting the crumbs onto the chicken helps build a good crust and prevents it from falling off during baking.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe that keeps people coming back for more. It’s simple to make but packed with flavors and textures that feel anything but ordinary. If you want a dish that impresses without fuss, this recipe is your go-to. I genuinely hope you enjoy making it as much as I do and find it becoming one of your favorite comfort food staples!
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Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously crispy Crack Chicken Tenders are coated in a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and Ranch seasoning, then baked to golden perfection. These tenders are easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty snack, boasting a crunchy Ritz cracker coating that adds irresistible texture.
Ingredients
Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb. chicken tenders
Coating Mixture
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
Crust
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Prepare Coating Mixture: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth and well blended.
- Coat Chicken Tenders: Dip each chicken tender into the prepared mayo mixture, fully coating it, then dredge it in the crushed Ritz crackers until evenly covered for a crunchy crust.
- Arrange Tenders: Place the coated chicken tenders on the lined baking sheet, spacing them apart to promote even baking and crispiness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the tenders are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can spray the coated tenders lightly with cooking spray before baking.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce for added flavor.
- Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to guarantee it is safely cooked.
- Substitute crushed crackers with crushed panko or gluten-free crackers if dietary needs require.
