These Crack Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, offering a crunchy exterior and a flavorful inside. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these tenders are sure to impress both kids and adults alike. With a quick prep time and simple ingredients, you’ll find that these tenders make for an easy meal option that never compromises on taste!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious tenders ready to bake.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of Ranch seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and crushed Ritz crackers creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Versatile Dish: Serve them as a main dish, appetizer, or snack – they fit perfectly into any occasion!
- Kid-Friendly: These tenders are a hit with children, making mealtime easier for parents.
- Easy Cleanup: Using parchment paper or greasing the baking sheet means less mess and hassle after cooking.
Tools and Preparation
To make the most of your cooking experience, having the right tools is essential. Gather these kitchen staples to prepare your Crack Chicken Tenders efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Whisk or spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for even cooking and browning of the chicken tenders.
- Mixing bowl: Allows you to easily combine ingredients without spills or mess.
- Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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 Chicken 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)
How to Make Crack Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Crack Chicken Tenders cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This step helps prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix the Coating
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until smooth.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture. Then dredge them in the crushed Ritz crackers, pressing down gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them out for even cooking.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Step 7: Serve
Allow the tenders to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce!
How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders
Crack Chicken Tenders are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re serving them as a snack or a main dish, these tenders will please everyone at the table.
As an Appetizer
- Serve warm with toothpicks for easy dipping.
- Pair with a tangy ranch or barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
In a Sandwich
- Place tenders in a soft bun and top with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.
- Add pickles for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
On a Salad
- Slice the tenders and toss them over a fresh garden salad.
- Drizzle with ranch dressing to complement the flavors.
With Dipping Sauces
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, buffalo sauce, or blue cheese.
- This allows guests to customize their flavor experience.
As Part of a Platter
- Arrange Crack Chicken Tenders on a platter with veggies and dips.
- Perfect for parties or game day gatherings.
In Tacos
- Shred the cooked tenders and use them as filling in soft tortillas.
- Top with avocado, cilantro, and lime for a fresh twist.
How to Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders
To achieve the ultimate Crack Chicken Tenders, follow these simple tips that will elevate your dish to perfection.
- Use fresh chicken – Fresh chicken tenders ensure better texture and flavor than frozen ones.
- Don’t skimp on the coating – Make sure each tender is well-coated with the mayo mixture before dredging in Ritz crackers for maximum crunch.
- Let them rest – Allowing cooked tenders to rest for a few minutes helps retain moisture inside.
- Experiment with spices – Feel free to add your favorite spices to the mayo mixture for an extra kick.
- Adjust baking time – Keep an eye on the oven; cooking times may vary depending on your oven’s efficiency.
- Serve immediately – For optimal taste and texture, serve your chicken tenders right out of the oven.
Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken Tenders
Crack Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with several side dishes that enhance their deliciousness. Here are some great options to consider:
- Coleslaw – A creamy or vinegar-based slaw adds crunch and balances flavors well.
- French Fries – Crispy fries are always a hit; try sweet potato fries for a healthier alternative.
- Macaroni and Cheese – The creamy richness complements the crispy texture of the tenders perfectly.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness that pairs nicely with savory chicken.
- Baked Beans – A hearty side that offers a smoky flavor contrast to the chicken tenders.
- Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli provides color and nutrition, making it a healthy option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Crack Chicken Tenders, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the coating: Not fully coating the chicken in the mayo mixture can lead to dry tenders. Ensure every piece is well-covered for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Using stale crackers: Using old or stale Ritz crackers will result in a less crispy texture. Always use fresh crackers for the best crunch.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing tenders too close together can cause uneven cooking. Leave space between each tender for optimal heat circulation.
- Ignoring cooking times: Not monitoring the cooking time may result in undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Forgetting to preheat: Baking without preheating can lead to uneven cooking and poor texture. Always preheat your oven before placing the chicken inside.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store leftover Crack Chicken Tenders in an airtight container.
- item They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Crack Chicken Tenders
- item Place cooled tenders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- item They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Crack Chicken Tenders
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
- Stovetop: Warm them in a skillet over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crack Chicken Tenders?
Crack Chicken Tenders are chicken strips coated with a mixture of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, and crushed Ritz crackers, baked until crispy and flavorful.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips and follow the same recipe for delicious results.
How do I make these Crack Chicken Tenders healthier?
You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and opt for whole grain crackers for a healthier alternative.
Can I air fry Crack Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! Arrange the coated tenders in your air fryer basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until crispy.
What dipping sauces pair well with these tenders?
These tenders go great with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
Crack Chicken Tenders are not just quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main course, they offer endless customization options. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or serve them alongside your favorite dips. Try making these today; your taste buds will thank you!
Crack Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Crack Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food that combines a crispy exterior with a juicy, flavorful interior. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these tenders are quick to prepare and sure to impress everyone from kids to adults. Coated in a savory blend of crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, and Ranch seasoning, each bite bursts with mouthwatering flavor. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, these chicken tenders promise to be a family favorite. With minimal cleanup required and endless serving possibilities—from sandwiches to salads—Crack Chicken Tenders are a must-try recipe that elevates any meal.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
- Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture, then dredge in crushed Ritz crackers.
- Arrange coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart for even cooking.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Allow to cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauces.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 tenders (approx. 120g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
