Introduction

These Crack Chicken Tenders are an irresistible combination of crispy coating, tender meat, and bold flavors! Made with a rich mayo-Parmesan mixture, seasoned with ranch, garlic, and onion, and coated in buttery crushed Ritz crackers, they offer the perfect crunch and flavor explosion with every bite. Whether you’re serving them as a quick family dinner or as finger food for game night, these chicken tenders are guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, they’re super easy to make, with just a few pantry staples!

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

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Mayo Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp onion powder.
2. Mix well until you get a smooth, creamy consistency.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders

1. Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to help the coating stick better.
2. Dip each tender into the mayo-Parmesan mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated on all sides.
3. Dredge the coated tenders in the crushed Ritz crackers, pressing lightly to make sure the crumbs adhere evenly.

Step 4: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

1. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow even cooking.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken Tenders

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through.
2. Check for doneness: The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Cooking Notes

• Ritz Cracker Substitution: If you don’t have Ritz crackers, try using panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a similar crunch.
• Mayonnaise Substitute: Use Greek yogurt in place of mayo for a lighter option.
• Crispier Finish: Broil the tenders for the last 2 minutes of baking for an extra crispy top.
• Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, for a crispy, healthier version.

Serving Suggestions

• Dip Ideas: Serve with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
• Side Dishes: Pair with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Snack Option: These chicken tenders are great finger food for parties, game nights, or kids’ lunches.

Tips

1. Prep Ahead: Coat the chicken tenders in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 12 hours before baking.
2. Even Coating: Use one hand for dipping in the mayo mixture and the other hand for dredging in the crackers to avoid sticky fingers.
3. Freezing Option: After coating the chicken, arrange them on a tray and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen—just add 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.

Prep Time:

• 10 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 20-25 minutes

Total Time:

• 30-35 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 25g
• Sodium: 650mg

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food with a crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful inside. The combination of Parmesan, ranch seasoning, and Ritz crackers makes them an addictive, crowd-pleasing dish. Perfect for dinner, snacks, or parties, these tenders are quick to prepare and sure to become a family favorite. Give them a try, and watch them disappear in minutes!

Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

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• Author: Imili Johnson
• Total Time: 35 minutes

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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

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Mayo Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp onion powder.
2. Mix well until you get a smooth, creamy consistency.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders

1. Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to help the coating stick better.
2. Dip each tender into the mayo-Parmesan mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated on all sides.
3. Dredge the coated tenders in the crushed Ritz crackers, pressing lightly to make sure the crumbs adhere evenly.

Step 4: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

1. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow even cooking.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken Tenders

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through.
2. Check for doneness: The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 380
• Sodium: 650mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 27g