These Crack Chicken Tenders are a delightful treat that everyone will love! Coated in a crispy layer of crushed Ritz crackers, Ranch seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, they deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. Ideal for any occasion, whether as an appetizer at a party or a quick family dinner, these tenders are sure to impress. Their simplicity and taste make them a standout choice for busy weeknights and gatherings alike.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious tenders ready to bake.
- Family Favorite: The combination of flavors is sure to please both kids and adults, making it a go-to meal for the whole family.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or main dishβperfect for any occasion.
- Easy Cleanup: Using parchment paper means minimal mess when baking, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of extensive cleanup.
- Crispy Texture: The Ritz cracker coating provides an irresistible crunch that enhances the tender chicken inside.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or cooking spray
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Whisk or spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Parchment paper: This helps with easy release of the tenders and simplifies cleanup after baking.
Ingredients
For these tasty Crack Chicken Tenders, youβll need the following:
For the Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb. chicken tenders
- Β½ cup mayonnaise
- Β½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
- Β½ tsp garlic powder
- Β½ tsp onion powder
- 1 cup Ritz crackers (crushed)
How to Make Crack Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). This ensures that your tenders cook evenly throughout.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This prevents sticking and makes for easier cleanup later.
Step 3: Mix the Coating
In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until smooth and well blended.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Take each chicken tender and coat it in the mayo mixture thoroughly. Then dredge it in the crushed Ritz crackers, pressing down slightly to ensure that the coating sticks well.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them out adequately for even cooking.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165Β°F.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, allow them to cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor!
Enjoy your homemade Crack Chicken Tenders!
How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders
Crack Chicken Tenders are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different occasions. Whether youβre hosting a party or looking for an easy family dinner, these tenders are a hit!
As a Snack
- Pair with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue for a satisfying snack.
In a Wrap
- Slice the tenders and wrap them in a tortilla with fresh veggies and sauces for a delicious on-the-go meal.
On a Salad
- Chop the tenders and toss them on a bed of greens with your choice of dressing for a hearty salad.
As an Appetizer
- Serve the tenders with toothpicks at parties or gatherings, making them easy to grab and enjoy.
How to Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders
To ensure your Crack Chicken Tenders are perfectly crispy and flavorful, follow these simple tips.
Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken tenders yield better texture and flavor compared to frozen ones.
Donβt Skimp on Coating: Make sure each tender is generously coated in the mayo mixture before dredging in crushed crackers for maximal crunch.
Space Them Out: Arrange the tenders on the baking sheet with space between them to allow even cooking and crispiness.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165Β°F for safe consumption.
Let Them Rest: Allow the tenders to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps maintain their juiciness.
Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken Tenders
Crack Chicken Tenders pair well with a variety of side dishes that complement their savory flavors. Here are some great options:
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that balances the crunch of the tenders.Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, making it an ideal side dish for these flavorful tenders.Steamed Broccoli
Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy contrast to the richness of the chicken, adding color and nutrition to your plate.French Fries
Classic fries are always a crowd-pleaser. Try sweet potato fries for a twist that pairs wonderfully with the tenders.Corn on the Cob
Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is sweet and juicy, enhancing your mealβs overall flavor profile.Macaroni Salad
A creamy macaroni salad provides coolness that complements the hot, crispy tenders perfectly.Rice Pilaf
Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs is an excellent base that absorbs any sauces from your meal.Baked Beans
Sweet baked beans add depth and heartiness, creating a fulfilling dining experience alongside your chicken tenders.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crack Chicken Tenders, itβs easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.
Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure your oven reaches the desired temperature before placing your tenders inside.
Overlooking the Coating Process: Skipping the mayo mixture or not pressing the crackers onto the chicken can result in a less flavorful coating. Ensure each tender is fully coated for maximum flavor.
Using the Wrong Baking Sheet: A non-stick baking sheet may cause sticking. Use parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent any issues while baking.
Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken tenders. Keep an eye on them and remove them once they reach golden brown and an internal temperature of 165Β°F.
Skipping Cooling Time: Serving immediately may lead to a hot and messy experience. Letting them cool slightly allows for better flavor and easier handling.
Not Customizing Seasoning: Sticking strictly to the recipe without tweaking it might limit flavor. Feel free to adjust seasonings according to your preference for a more personal touch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Crack Chicken Tenders
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Crack Chicken Tenders
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, checking frequently until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Crack Chicken Tenders that may help you out!
What are Crack Chicken Tenders?
Crack Chicken Tenders are crispy, flavorful chicken strips coated with a mixture of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, and crushed Ritz crackers.
Can I use other types of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute traditional chicken tenders with chicken breasts or thighs cut into strips if preferred.
How can I customize my Crack Chicken Tenders?
Feel free to add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for extra heat or mix different cheeses into the coating for varied flavors!
Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tenders in advance, store them in the fridge or freezer, and reheat when youβre ready to serve.
What dipping sauces pair well with Crack Chicken Tenders?
These tenders pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo!
Final Thoughts
Crack Chicken Tenders are not just delicious; theyβre also versatile and easy to prepare. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these tenders will please everyone at your table. Donβt hesitate to customize them with your favorite seasonings or dips!
Crack Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Crack Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on traditional chicken strips, featuring a crispy coating made from crushed Ritz crackers, flavorful Ranch seasoning, and rich Parmesan cheese. Perfect for any occasion, these tenders are simple to prepare and will satisfy both kids and adults alike. Whether served as a quick snack, an appetizer at gatherings, or the main attraction for family dinners, they promise a burst of flavor in every bite. With just 10 minutes of prep time and minimal cleanup thanks to parchment paper, you can have crispy, tender chicken ready to enjoy in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. chicken tenders
- Β½ cup mayonnaise
- Β½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
- Β½ tsp garlic powder
- Β½ tsp onion powder
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
- Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture thoroughly and then dredge in crushed Ritz crackers.
- Arrange the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet with space between each.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165Β°F.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tender
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating spices like paprika or cayenne pepper into the coating. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch dressing or honey mustard for an extra kick.
