Crack Chicken Tenders
These Crack Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or looking for an irresistible snack, these tenders stand out with their crispy texture and savory flavor. Coated with crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, and Ranch seasoning, every bite is a burst of taste that will keep your family coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these tenders ready to bake.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the crispy coating and flavorful chicken, making it a hit at the dinner table.
- Versatile Dish: Serve as an appetizer, snack, or main course; they fit any meal occasion perfectly.
- Easy Cleanup: Using parchment paper means less mess and easy cleanup after cooking.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of Ranch seasoning and Parmesan ensures every bite is full of flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Crack Chicken Tenders, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or cooking spray
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Sheet: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly cooked tenders.
- Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and allows for easy cleanup after baking.
- Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
Ingredients
For the Chicken 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). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture. Then dredge it in crushed Ritz crackers, pressing down gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Arrange the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out adequately to allow 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 for safe consumption.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow your Crack Chicken Tenders to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce!
How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders
Crack Chicken Tenders are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a game night or looking for a quick dinner, these tenders are sure to please everyone at the table.
As a Snack
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard for added flavor.
In a Wrap
- Wrap them in a tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite sauce for a delicious meal on-the-go.
On a Salad
- Slice the tenders over mixed greens and drizzle with your favorite dressing for a crunchy salad.
With Mac and Cheese
- Pair them with creamy mac and cheese for a comforting dish that combines flavors and textures.
As an Appetizer
- Cut into smaller pieces and serve toothpicked as bite-sized appetizers at parties.
How to Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders
To ensure your Crack Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken tends to have better flavor and texture compared to frozen.
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Don’t Skimp on Coating: Make sure each tender is generously coated in the mayo mixture before dredging in Ritz crackers for maximum crunch.
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Space Them Out: Leave enough space between tenders on the baking sheet to allow even cooking and crispiness.
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Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating.
Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken Tenders
When serving Crack Chicken Tenders, consider pairing them with complementary sides that enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options:
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Coleslaw: A crunchy, refreshing side that balances the savory flavors of the chicken tenders.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness to your plate that contrasts nicely with the tenders.
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Garlic Bread: Soft garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any extra sauce while providing comforting flavors.
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Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a sweet crunch that complements the savory chicken.
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Baked Beans: A classic barbecue side dish that brings rich flavors to your meal.
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Caesar Salad: A light, zesty salad that pairs well with the crispy chicken tenders.
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Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide another crunchy element, perfect for dipping.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Crack Chicken Tenders, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your tenders turn out perfectly.
- Skipping the coating – Make sure to thoroughly coat the chicken tenders in the mayo mixture before dredging in the crackers. This helps the crispy layer adhere better.
- Not preheating the oven – Always preheat your oven before baking. This allows for even cooking and ensures your tenders are crispy.
- Crowding the baking sheet – Avoid placing too many tenders on one pan. Space them out to allow proper air circulation for even crispiness.
- Ignoring internal temperature – Use a meat thermometer to check that each tender reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Not letting them cool – Allowing the tenders to cool slightly before serving enhances flavor and makes them easier to eat.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking, to maintain crispiness.
Freezing Crack Chicken Tenders
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Crack Chicken Tenders
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, though this may soften the coating.
- Stovetop – Sauté in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until warmed, which helps retain some crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Crack Chicken Tenders.
How can I make Crack Chicken Tenders healthier?
You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option while still keeping moisture and flavor.
Can I use other seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices or seasoning blends according to your taste preferences.
What dipping sauces pair well with Crack Chicken Tenders?
These tenders go great with ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard for a delightful dip experience.
Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Final Thoughts
Crack Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main course, they are sure to please both kids and adults alike. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or dipping sauces for added flair. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying recipe with family and friends!
Crack Chicken Tenders
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crack Chicken Tenders are your new go-to comfort food, combining crispy textures with savory flavors that everyone will love. Coated in a delicious blend of crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, and Ranch seasoning, these tenders are perfect for any occasion—be it game day, a family dinner, or a quick snack. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can serve up these golden-brown delights in no time. They’re not only easy to make but also versatile enough to be enjoyed as an appetizer, in a wrap, or on a salad. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible treat that will keep your family coming back for more.
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 the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
- Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture then dredge in crushed Ritz crackers.
- Arrange the coated tenders on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 tenders (150g)
- Calories: 405
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
