Crack Chicken Tenders
These Crack Chicken Tenders are a delightful combination of crispy, savory flavors that make them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner, hosting a game night, or just craving a delicious snack, these tenders fit the bill. Coated in crushed Ritz crackers and seasoned with Ranch and Parmesan, each bite is a flavorful experience. They are not only easy to prepare but also baked to perfection in just 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation – With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these tenders ready to bake in no time.
- Kid-Friendly – These tenders are perfect for picky eaters, making them a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Crispy Texture – The crushed Ritz cracker coating gives these chicken tenders an irresistible crunch that everyone will love.
- Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish; they pair well with various dipping sauces.
- Flavor Packed – The combination of Ranch seasoning and Parmesan cheese ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing Crack Chicken Tenders is simple when you have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Whisk or spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet – Provides a sturdy surface for cooking the chicken tenders evenly.
- Mixing bowl – Allows for easy combining of ingredients for the coating mixture.
- Parchment paper – Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb. chicken tenders
For the Coating
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
For the Crunchy Coating
- 1 cup Ritz crackers (crushed)
How to Make Crack Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Make the Coating Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine:
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Stir until smooth and well blended.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture:
1. Dip each tender into the coating mixture.
2. Dredge in crushed Ritz crackers, pressing firmly to ensure they adhere.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them out for even cooking.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure an internal temperature of at least 165°F.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the chicken tenders to cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra touch! Enjoy your delicious Crack Chicken Tenders!
How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders
These Crack Chicken Tenders are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick meal, these tenders can easily fit your needs.
As a Snack
- Serve them warm with a side of ranch or honey mustard for dipping.
- Pair with fresh veggie sticks like carrots and celery for a crunchy contrast.
In a Wrap
- Wrap the tenders in a tortilla with lettuce, tomato, and avocado for a hearty lunch.
- Add some cheese and your favorite sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
On a Salad
- Slice the tenders and toss them on top of mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette or your favorite dressing for a tasty crunch.
For Game Day
- Serve the tenders on a platter with multiple dipping sauces to please the crowd.
- Pair with chips and salsa for an easy appetizer spread.
As Part of a Family Meal
- Serve alongside mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting dinner.
- Add some garlic bread to round out the meal.
How to Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders
To ensure your Crack Chicken Tenders come out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use fresh chicken: Fresh chicken tenders will have better texture and flavor than frozen ones.
- Don’t skimp on coating: Make sure each tender is generously coated in the mayo mixture before dredging in crackers for maximum crunch.
- Space them out: Arrange the tenders with enough space on the baking sheet to allow even cooking and crispiness.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Let them rest: Allowing the tenders to cool slightly before serving enhances their flavor and texture.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the cracker coating for extra flavor!
Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken Tenders
Pairing your Crack Chicken Tenders with delicious sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make a perfect comfort food pairing.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balance while complementing the savory flavors of the tenders.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies provide nutrients and vibrant flavors that contrast nicely with the crispy chicken.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a delightful side that’s easy to prepare and always popular among families.
- French Fries: Classic fries are always a hit; consider trying sweet potato fries for a twist!
- Macaroni and Cheese: This cheesy favorite pairs well with chicken tenders, pleasing kids and adults alike.
- Baked Beans: A hearty side that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes, adding depth to your meal.
- Garden Salad: A simple garden salad adds freshness while keeping your meal light.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Crack Chicken Tenders even more delicious.
- Skipping the Coating: Not using the mayo mixture properly can lead to dry tenders. Ensure each chicken piece is fully coated before breading with Ritz crackers.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing tenders too close can result in uneven cooking. Space them out so they bake evenly and achieve that perfect crispiness.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can undercook your tenders. Always preheat to the specified temperature for best results.
- Ignoring Cooking Time: Overbaking can dry out the chicken, while underbaking poses food safety risks. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Using Expired Ingredients: Old spices like Ranch seasoning lose flavor. Check expiration dates to ensure maximum taste in your dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow tenders to cool completely before sealing to keep them fresh.
Freezing Crack Chicken Tenders
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
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 1-2 minutes, but this may make them less crispy.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally 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 cut chicken breasts into strips. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to cook through.
What dipping sauces pair well with Crack Chicken Tenders?
Popular choices include ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, or honey mustard for extra flavor.
Can I make these Crack Chicken Tenders gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free crackers as a substitute for Ritz crackers and check Ranch seasoning for gluten-free labeling.
How do I customize my Crack Chicken Tenders?
Feel free to add spices or herbs like paprika or Italian seasoning to the mayo mix for extra flavor!
Final Thoughts
These Crack Chicken Tenders are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful and versatile. They work great as snacks, appetizers, or even a main meal. Feel free to customize with your favorite seasonings or serve with different dipping sauces!
Crack Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Crack Chicken Tenders are a family favorite that brings together crispy, savory flavors in every bite. Coated with a delightful mixture of crushed Ritz crackers, creamy mayonnaise, and zesty Ranch seasoning, these tenders are baked to perfection for a quick and satisfying meal.
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 your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- 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, then dredge in crushed Ritz crackers.
- Arrange the coated tenders on the baking sheet with space between them.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Allow cooling slightly before serving with dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 chicken tenders (approximately 120g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
