These Crack Chicken Tenders are juicy, flavorful, and coated in a golden, crispy crust that will have everyone coming back for more! Made with Ranch seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and buttery Ritz crackers, this recipe is perfect for dinner, appetizers, or game day snacks.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
1 lb chicken tenders
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
For the Coating:
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Tenders
In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Add the chicken tenders to the mixture and toss until they are evenly coated with the mayonnaise mixture.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Place the crushed Ritz crackers on a plate or shallow dish.
Take each chicken tender and roll it in the crushed crackers, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken Tenders
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Tips for the Best Chicken Tenders
Cracker Substitutions: Use crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or seasoned breadcrumbs for a different texture.
Extra Crunch: For even crispier tenders, spray the coated chicken with a light mist of cooking spray before baking.
Air Fryer Option: Cook the tenders in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: ~310
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 15g
Fat: 17g
Enjoy Your Crack Chicken Tenders!
Crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor, these tenders are sure to become a family favorite. Perfect as a main dish or a snack, they’re as easy to make as they are delicious!