Crack Chicken Tenders

These Crack Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of crispy and savory, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Coated in a blend of crushed Ritz crackers, Ranch seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, these tenders deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, they are quick to prepare and bake, making them ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Once you try this recipe, it will surely become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Kid-Friendly: The crispy coating and flavorful chicken make these tenders a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these tenders as a snack, appetizer, or even tucked into a sandwich for lunch.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of Ranch seasoning and Parmesan cheese ensures each bite is bursting with taste.
• Easy Cleanup: Baking means less mess compared to frying, making cleanup a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Crack Chicken Tenders efficiently, having the right tools is key. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking the tenders to perfection without sticking.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly to ensure even flavor distribution.
• Whisk or Spatula: Helps to mix the coating ingredients thoroughly for an optimal tender coating.

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)

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) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix the Coating Ingredients

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

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture:
1. Dip the tender into the mayo mixture.
2. Dredge it in crushed Ritz crackers while pressing down gently to ensure that the coating sticks well.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet with space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow your Crack Chicken Tenders to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce!

How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders

Crack Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for an easy family meal, these tenders make for a fantastic dish. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing – A classic pairing that enhances the ranch flavor in the tenders.
• BBQ Sauce – Adds a smoky sweetness that complements the crispy coating.
• Honey Mustard – Offers a tangy contrast, balancing the savory flavors perfectly.

As Part of a Salad

• Caesar Salad – Toss the tenders on top of romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing for a hearty meal.
• Garden Salad – Add sliced tenders to mixed greens with your choice of dressing for extra protein.

In a Sandwich

• Chicken Tender Sandwich – Place tenders in a bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a filling lunch option.
• Wraps – Roll up the tenders with veggies and dressing in a tortilla for an easy grab-and-go meal.

How to Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders

To ensure your Crack Chicken Tenders come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. They enhance both flavor and texture, making every bite delicious.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh chicken and high-quality seasoning will elevate the taste significantly.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet – Space the tenders out to allow even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
• Press Firmly When Coating – Ensure that the crushed Ritz crackers stick well by pressing firmly; this creates an extra crispy layer.
• Check Internal Temperature – Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F for safe consumption.
• Let Rest Before Serving – Allowing them to cool slightly helps retain moisture and makes them easier to handle.
• Experiment with Seasonings – Feel free to add herbs or spices to the mayo mixture for personalized flavor combinations.

Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken Tenders

These Crack Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their savory crunch. Here are some great options to serve alongside them.

1. French Fries – Classic crispy fries that are perfect for dipping into sauces.
2. Coleslaw – A refreshing side that adds crunch and balances the richness of the tenders.
3. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy cheese pasta provides comfort alongside crunchy chicken.
4. Steamed Broccoli – A healthy option that brings color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a delightful contrast and summer vibes to any meal.
6. Potato Wedges – Seasoned wedges offer an alternative to fries while still being indulgent.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crack Chicken Tenders, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final result. Here are common mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the coating step: Ensure you fully coat each chicken tender in the mayonnaise mixture before dredging in Ritz crackers. This helps the coating stick better and enhances flavor.
• Not preheating the oven: Preheating your oven to 375°F ensures even cooking. If you skip this step, your tenders may not cook through properly.
• Using stale crackers: Fresh Ritz crackers yield a better crunch. Always check the expiration date to ensure maximum crispiness.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Spacing out the chicken tenders on the baking sheet allows them to cook evenly. If they’re too close together, they may steam instead of bake.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Always check that your chicken tenders reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This is crucial for food safety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Crack Chicken Tenders in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crack Chicken Tenders

• Place cooled tenders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Crack Chicken Tenders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate; heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking often.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of crackers for Crack Chicken Tenders?

Yes, you can substitute Ritz crackers with any buttery or savory crackers like Club or Saltines for a different flavor profile.

How do I make Crack Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

To make these tenders gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers and ensure your Ranch seasoning mix is also gluten-free.

Can I air fry Crack Chicken Tenders?

Absolutely! Air frying will give you a great crispy texture. Cook at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What dipping sauces go well with Crack Chicken Tenders?

Popular choices include ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!

How do I customize my Crack Chicken Tenders?

You can add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper to the coating mix for extra kick. Also, consider different cheeses like cheddar for a unique twist!

Final Thoughts

Crack Chicken Tenders are not just a delicious meal; they are versatile enough to serve as snacks or appetizers at any gathering. With their easy preparation and customization options, you can tailor them to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these flavorful tenders!

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Crack Chicken Tenders

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Crack Chicken Tenders are the ultimate snack or meal that combines crispy, savory goodness with a burst of flavor in every bite. Coated in a mouthwatering mixture of crushed Ritz crackers, Ranch seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese, these tenders are perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a quick bake in the oven, they transform into a dish that both kids and adults will love. Versatile enough to be served as an appetizer, snack, or even tucked into a sandwich, these tenders are destined to become a household favorite. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra touch of delight!

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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

Instructions

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

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing herbs or spices into the mayo mixture. Experiment with different types of crackers for unique twists on texture and taste.