Crack Chicken Tenders

These Crack Chicken Tenders are a delightful treat that combines crispy, savory flavors with the juiciness of chicken. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a game day party, serving a quick weeknight dinner, or preparing a delicious snack for the kids. Each tender is coated in a flavorful mix of crushed Ritz crackers, Ranch seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, ensuring that every bite is packed with taste!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Coating
• How to Make Crack Chicken Tenders
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
• Step 3: Mix the Coating Ingredients
• Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders
• Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
• Step 6: Bake Until Golden
• Step 7: Cool and Serve
• How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders
• As a Snack
• In a Sandwich
• As an Appetizer
• On a Salad
• With a Dipping Bar
• How to Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders
• Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken Tenders
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Crack Chicken Tenders
• Reheating Crack Chicken Tenders
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of cheese for Crack Chicken Tenders?
• How do I make Crack Chicken Tenders healthier?
• Can I prepare Crack Chicken Tenders ahead of time?
• What dipping sauces go well with Crack Chicken Tenders?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These tenders take only 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love the crispy coating and fun flavors, making dinner time enjoyable.
• Versatile Meal Option: Ideal as an appetizer, main course, or even a snack for gatherings.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of Ranch seasoning and Parmesan creates an irresistible taste.
• Easy Cleanup: Using parchment paper means less mess and simple cleanup after cooking.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing these Crack Chicken Tenders is straightforward with the right tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for even cooking of your tenders.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly for the best flavor.
• Whisk or spoon: Ensures all ingredients are well mixed for an even coating on the chicken.

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

• 1 lb. chicken tenders

For the Coating

• 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).

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:
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

Stir until smooth.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture:
1. Dip into the mixture until fully covered.
2. Dredge in crushed Ritz crackers, pressing down to ensure they stick well.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

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

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

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

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor!

How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders

Crack Chicken Tenders are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, these tenders can shine as the star of your meal.

As a Snack

• Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for an easy snack. Options like ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard enhance the flavor.

In a Sandwich

• Place the tenders in a bun with lettuce, tomato, and your preferred sauce for a satisfying sandwich option.

As an Appetizer

• Serve them on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking during parties or game days.

On a Salad

• Cut the cooked tenders into strips and add them to a fresh salad for extra protein and crunch.

With a Dipping Bar

• Create a dipping station with various sauces such as buffalo sauce, sriracha mayo, or garlic aioli for guests to customize their bites.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders

Perfecting Crack Chicken Tenders is all about achieving that crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside. Here are some tips to help you get it just right.

• Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken tenders will yield better texture and flavor compared to frozen ones.
• Don’t Skip the Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Press Firmly: When coating with Ritz crackers, press down firmly to make sure the crumbs adhere well.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the tenders in the oven; you want them golden brown but not overcooked.
• Let Them Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to maintain juiciness.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add other spices or herbs to the mayo mixture for additional flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken Tenders

Pairing side dishes with Crack Chicken Tenders can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic provide comfort alongside crispy tenders.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the chicken.
3. Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed broccoli or green beans offer a healthy contrast and vibrant color.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and savory fries are a great alternative to regular fries and add sweetness to your plate.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: A classic cheesy dish that kids love, mac and cheese brings indulgence to any meal.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a summery touch that pairs well with crispy tenders.
7. Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad complements the flavors of the chicken while adding freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Crack Chicken Tenders from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the mayo mixture well can lead to bland chicken tenders. Ensure you mix in enough Ranch seasoning and spices for maximum flavor.
• Not crushing the crackers finely: Using large pieces of Ritz crackers may result in uneven coating. Crush them into fine crumbs for a more consistent, crispy texture.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many tenders on one tray can cause steaming instead of baking. Space them out on the sheet to achieve that perfect golden crisp.
• Ignoring cooking times: Not monitoring bake time can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Rushing the cooling process: Serving immediately after baking can make them soggy. Let them cool slightly for optimal crispness before enjoying.

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the tenders to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Crack Chicken Tenders

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crack Chicken Tenders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes; this may soften the coating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing and serving Crack Chicken Tenders:

Can I use different types of cheese for Crack Chicken Tenders?

You can definitely use different cheeses! Cheddar or mozzarella work great as alternatives.

How do I make Crack Chicken Tenders healthier?

Consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and whole grain crackers for a healthier twist on this recipe.

Can I prepare Crack Chicken Tenders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them and refrigerate them before baking. Just increase the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.

What dipping sauces go well with Crack Chicken Tenders?

These tenders taste fantastic with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce as dips!

Final Thoughts

Crack Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic snack, appetizer, or main dish that everyone will love! Feel free to customize with your favorite seasonings or dips, making this recipe your own. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!