Crack Chicken Tenders

These Crack Chicken Tenders are a delightful treat that will quickly become a family favorite! Coated in a crispy layer of Ritz crackers, Ranch seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, each bite bursts with flavor. They’re not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to serve as a snack, appetizer, or main dish. Perfect for any occasion, these tenders offer an easy solution for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Tenders
• How to Make Crack Chicken Tenders
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
• Step 3: Mix the Coating
• Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders
• Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
• Step 6: Bake
• Step 7: Cool and Serve
• How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders
• As a Snack
• As an Appetizer
• As a Main Dish
• With Drinks
• 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 chicken breasts instead of tenders?
• What dipping sauces pair well with Crack Chicken Tenders?
• How can I customize my Crack Chicken Tenders?
• Are these tenders kid-friendly?
• Can I make these Crack Chicken Tenders ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of Ranch seasoning and Parmesan cheese delivers an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or main course; they fit any meal plan!
• Kid-Friendly: These tenders are perfect for picky eaters, making dinner stress-free.
• Crispy Texture: The crushed Ritz crackers provide a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Crack Chicken Tenders, having the right tools on hand makes the process smooth and effortless. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Whisk or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and easy cleanup when lined with parchment paper.
• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for thoroughly combining ingredients without spills.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements help maintain the recipe’s balance of flavors.

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 Tenders

• 1 lb. chicken tenders
• 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) so it’s hot and ready for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix the Coating

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Mayonnaise
2. Grated Parmesan cheese
3. Ranch seasoning mix
4. Garlic powder
5. Onion powder

Whisk until smooth.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders

1. Take each chicken tender and coat it in the mayo mixture.
2. Dredge it in crushed Ritz crackers, pressing down to ensure the coating sticks well.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced out for even cooking.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow your Crack Chicken Tenders to cool slightly before serving them with your favorite dipping sauce!

Enjoy this simple yet delicious recipe that transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary!

How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders

These Crack Chicken Tenders are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, here are some fantastic serving suggestions.

As a Snack

• With Dipping Sauces: Serve alongside ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard for extra flavor.
• Mini Sliders: Place tenders on slider buns with lettuce and tomato for a mini sandwich option.

As an Appetizer

• Party Platter: Arrange on a platter with veggies and dips for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Skewered: Thread them onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and bell peppers for fun finger food.

As a Main Dish

• With Salad: Pair with a fresh garden salad topped with your favorite dressing for a balanced meal.
• On Rice or Pasta: Serve over rice or pasta, drizzling with extra sauce for a hearty dish.

With Drinks

• Craft Beer: Complement your meal with a light craft beer that enhances the flavors of the tenders.
• Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade pairs nicely to balance the savory taste.

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How to Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders

To achieve the best version of these tenders, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh chicken tenders for superior flavor and texture.
• Crush Crackers Well: Ensure Ritz crackers are finely crushed to create an even coating that adheres well.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Space out the tenders to allow hot air to circulate for even cooking.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the Ranch seasoning based on your taste preferences; add more garlic powder for extra flavor.
• Use Parchment Paper: Lining the baking sheet with parchment helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken Tenders

Pairing these delicious Crack Chicken Tenders with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that pairs well.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the tenders.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful contrast and is easy to prepare on the grill or stovetop.
4. French Fries: Classic fries offer an irresistible crunch that complements the tender’s texture perfectly.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
6. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans provide a hearty side that works wonderfully with chicken tenders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crack Chicken Tenders, it’s easy to overlook some simple steps that can make a big difference.

• Skipping the Coating: Ensure each chicken tender is fully coated with the mayo mixture before dredging in the Ritz crackers for maximum flavor.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Space the tenders apart on the baking sheet. Crowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy tenders.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
• Serving Cold: Allow the tenders to cool slightly before serving. This helps maintain their crispy texture and enhances flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Crack Chicken Tenders in an airtight container.
• item They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crack Chicken Tenders

• item Cool fully before placing in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• item They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crack Chicken Tenders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but note this may soften the coating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, cooking for about 5 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crack Chicken Tenders.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, you can use sliced chicken breasts, but adjust cooking time as they may take longer than tenders.

What dipping sauces pair well with Crack Chicken Tenders?

Popular options include ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for added flavor.

How can I customize my Crack Chicken Tenders?

Feel free to mix in different spices or use flavored crackers for variety!

Are these tenders kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the crispy texture and flavorful coating, making them perfect for any family meal.

Can I make these Crack Chicken Tenders ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare them ahead and store them in the fridge until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

These Crack Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, they will surely please everyone at the table. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or dipping sauces!