If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up and bursting with flavor, you’re going to love these Crack Chicken Tenders! Golden, crispy, and full of savory goodness, this recipe turns simple ingredients into something seriously addictive.
Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner, a fun game night, or just craving some comfort food, these tenders have your back. They’re crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with cheesy, ranchy deliciousness that everyone will rave about.
Let’s bring a little extra joy to your kitchen today!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare with everyday ingredients.
- Irresistibly crispy coating and juicy chicken inside.
- Perfect for picky eaters and guaranteed to be a family favorite.
- Versatile enough for meals, snacks, or parties!
Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Equipment Needed: Mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper (or cooking spray), wire rack (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 lb. chicken tenders — the star of the dish, tender and juicy.
- ½ cup mayonnaise — keeps the chicken moist and helps the coating stick.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated — adds a salty, nutty depth of flavor.
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix — brings herby, savory flavors that define “crack” chicken.
- ½ tsp garlic powder — enhances the savory notes.
- ½ tsp onion powder — adds a subtle sweetness and warmth.
- 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed — gives the tenders their buttery, crunchy crust.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a mixing bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
- Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture, ensuring every piece is fully covered.
- Dredge the coated chicken tenders in crushed Ritz crackers, pressing lightly so the crumbs stick nicely.
- Arrange the tenders on your prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space to crisp up.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Let cool slightly, then dig in! Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mayo mixture.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix some shredded mozzarella into the mayo-Parmesan mixture for extra cheesiness.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz.
Storing Leftovers and Reheating
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back the crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep them crunchy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light meal.
- Serve alongside fries or sweet potato wedges for a classic combo.
- Add to a sandwich or wrap with lettuce and ranch dressing for a delicious twist.
Pro Tips
- For an ultra-crispy crust, refrigerate the coated tenders for 10 minutes before baking.
- Crush Ritz crackers by placing them in a zip-top bag and rolling with a rolling pin for even-sized crumbs.
- Use a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow heat to circulate around the tenders, making them even crispier.
Final Thoughts
These Crack Chicken Tenders are proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With a handful of simple ingredients and a little love, you can create a meal that feels special every time. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later, they’ll always bring a little extra happiness to your day. Get ready to add this one to your favorites list!
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Crack Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
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, stir together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
- Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture, ensuring every piece is fully covered.
- Dredge the coated chicken tenders in crushed Ritz crackers, pressing lightly so the crumbs stick nicely.
- Arrange the tenders on your prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space to crisp up.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Let cool slightly, then dig in! Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
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