Crack Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. Made with a savory coating of Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, and buttery Ritz crackers, these tenders are irresistibly delicious and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving them as a quick dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, they’re sure to become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Flavorful: The Ritz cracker coating adds a buttery crunch, while the Ranch seasoning provides a savory kick.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples you likely already have.
- Kid-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults alike!
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in less than 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders – The base of the dish, tender and easy to cook.
- ½ cup mayonnaise – Ensures a juicy interior and helps the coating stick.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a rich, cheesy flavor to the coating.
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix – Infuses the chicken with bold, tangy flavors.
- ½ tsp garlic powder – For an extra layer of savory goodness.
- ½ tsp onion powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers – Creates a crispy, golden crust.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Coating
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until smooth and well-blended.
3. Crush the Crackers
Place the Ritz crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or your hands. Pour the crumbs into a shallow dish.
4. Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken tender into the mayonnaise mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Next, dredge the coated tenders in the crushed Ritz crackers, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs.
5. Arrange and Bake
Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small gap between each piece. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Tips for Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders
- Ensure Even Coating: Use your hands or a brush to coat the chicken evenly with the mayonnaise mixture.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the mayo mixture for a spicy kick.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook the tenders in an air fryer at 375°F for 15-18 minutes for a crispy texture without the oven.
- Double the Recipe: This dish is so good, you’ll want to make extra for leftovers!
Serving Suggestions
Crack Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with:
- Side Dishes: Serve alongside mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
- Snacks: Use them as a finger food option for game nights or parties.
- Wraps: Slice the tenders and add them to a tortilla with lettuce and ranch dressing for a quick wrap.
Why You’ll Crave This Recipe
These Crack Chicken Tenders combine a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The creamy mayo mixture ensures the chicken stays juicy, while the Parmesan and Ranch seasoning elevate the taste. Finally, the buttery crunch of Ritz crackers takes these tenders to the next level.
Make these easy Crack Chicken Tenders today, and watch them disappear in no time! Whether for dinner, a snack, or a party platter, they’re always a winner.
