Crack Chicken Tenders

These Crack Chicken Tenders are a delightful, flavor-packed dish that everyone will love! Coated with a crispy mixture of crushed Ritz crackers, Ranch seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, they offer a perfect balance of savory goodness. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, an easy appetizer for a gathering, or a main dish that pleases the whole family, these tenders are your go-to solution. Plus, they’re simple to prepare and bake in just 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, these tenders fit perfectly into any busy schedule.
• Crispy Delight: The crushed Ritz cracker coating provides a crunchy texture that elevates the chicken’s juiciness.
• Flavor Explosion: Infused with Ranch seasoning and Parmesan cheese, each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish—perfect for any occasion!
• Kid-Friendly Meal: These tenders are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delicious Crack Chicken Tenders, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. This will help streamline the cooking process and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (or cooking spray)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the tenders, promoting uniform cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

These Crack Chicken Tenders are coated in a savory, crispy layer of crushed Ritz crackers, Ranch seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, making each bite packed with flavor! They’re quick to prepare and bake, creating an easy, family-friendly meal that’s anything but boring. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these tenders are sure to become a favorite!

For the Tenders

• 1 lb. chicken tenders
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 cup Ritz crackers (crushed)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Crack Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your tenders cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This prevents sticking and makes for an easy cleanup.

Step 3: Mix the Coating

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. ½ cup mayonnaise
2. ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3. 1 packet of Ranch seasoning mix
4. ½ tsp garlic powder
5. ½ tsp onion powder

Stir until smooth.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture. Then dredge them in crushed Ritz crackers:
1. Press firmly to ensure the coating sticks well.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Arrange the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet:
– Space them out evenly for optimal cooking.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 20-25 minutes:
– Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re cooked through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the tenders to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce!

How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders

These Crack Chicken Tenders are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

As a Snack

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard for added flavor.
• Vegetable Sticks: Pair with celery or carrot sticks for a crunchy side.

As an Appetizer

• Mini Sliders: Place tenders in slider buns with lettuce and tomato for a fun appetizer.
• Skewers: Thread cooked tenders onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and bell peppers for a colorful presentation.

As a Main Dish

• With Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the flavors.
• In Tacos: Shred tenders and fill corn tortillas with toppings like avocado and salsa.

How to Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders

To ensure your Crack Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Coating Technique: Make sure to press the crushed Ritz crackers firmly onto the chicken for an even coating.
• Bold Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven fully to achieve that crispy texture on the outside.
• Bold Cooking Time: Keep an eye on baking time; remove when they are golden brown for optimal flavor.
• Bold Use of Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients will enhance the taste of your mayo mixture significantly.
• Bold Batch Cooking: Double the recipe if you’re serving a crowd; they go quickly!
• Bold Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken Tenders

Crack Chicken Tenders pair well with many side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the tenders.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic summer side that goes great with chicken.
4. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans contrasts nicely with savory chicken tenders.
5. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad can lighten up your meal while adding flavor.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a healthier twist on fries, bringing sweetness and crunch to the plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crack Chicken Tenders, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Neglecting the Coating: Ensure you fully coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture and then the crushed crackers. This keeps the tenders flavorful and crispy.
• Skipping the Preheat: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Give each tender space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a soggy texture.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Removing the tenders when they are golden brown guarantees they will be juicy and not dry.
• Not Checking Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the tenders to cool completely before sealing them in a container.

Freezing Crack Chicken Tenders

• Place cooled tenders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label your containers!

Reheating Crack Chicken Tenders

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place tenders on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook each tender for about 3-4 minutes per side, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Crack Chicken Tenders?

Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy chicken strips coated with crushed Ritz crackers, Ranch seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, making them deliciously addictive.

Can I make these Crack Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute regular Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

How do I add more flavor to my Crack Chicken Tenders?

You can experiment with additional spices or herbs like paprika or Italian seasoning mixed into the coating for extra flavor.

What dipping sauces go well with Crack Chicken Tenders?

These tenders pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce as dipping options.

Can I bake these Crack Chicken Tenders instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option that still delivers crispy and delicious results without needing oil.

Final Thoughts

These Crack Chicken Tenders are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, they can also be customized with your favorite seasonings or dips. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a new family favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Crack Chicken Tenders

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the irresistible flavor of Crack Chicken Tenders—crispy, savory, and oh-so-delicious! These tender chicken strips are coated with a crunchy blend of crushed Ritz crackers, zesty Ranch seasoning, and rich Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these tenders are not just quick to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With only 10 minutes of prep and a total baking time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish effortlessly. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends, these tenders will have everyone coming back for more!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until smooth.
4. Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture and then dredge in crushed Ritz crackers.
5. Place the coated tenders on the baking sheet with space between them.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
7. Allow to cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 chicken tenders (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 70mg