If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table, Crack Chicken Tenders should be at the top of your list! This simple recipe combines juicy chicken tenders with a rich and flavorful coating that’s absolutely irresistible. The mayonnaise, Parmesan, and Ranch seasoning mixture gives the chicken a creamy and savory base, while the crushed Ritz crackers form a crunchy, golden crust. These tenders are the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and crispy, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even parties and gatherings.
Crack Chicken Tenders have earned their name because they’re that addictive. Once you take a bite, it’s hard to stop! Whether you serve them with a side of vegetables, dip them in ranch, or enjoy them as a stand-alone snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
To make these flavorful and crispy Crack Chicken Tenders, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders: These are the star of the show. You can use chicken breasts cut into tenders if you prefer, but chicken tenders are a great option because they’re tender, cook quickly, and are easy to handle.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that will help bind the ingredients together and keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a sharp, savory flavor to the mayo mixture that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix: A key ingredient that gives the tenders their zesty, herby taste.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: A staple in seasoning, garlic powder brings a rich, aromatic flavor to the dish.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Another flavor enhancer that adds depth to the overall taste.
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers: These crackers provide a buttery, crunchy coating that contrasts perfectly with the creamy chicken inside.
Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into the easy steps to make these Crack Chicken Tenders.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will allow the chicken tenders to cook perfectly, giving them a crispy outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Mayo Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything together until smooth. This creamy mixture will coat the chicken tenders and infuse them with delicious flavors.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Take each chicken tender and dip it into the mayo mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. This layer of creamy seasoning will not only enhance the flavor but will also help the crushed Ritz crackers stick to the chicken.
Step 4: Dredge in Crushed Ritz Crackers
Next, take each coated chicken tender and dredge it in the crushed Ritz crackers. Press gently to make sure the chicken is well-covered in the crumbs. This step gives the tenders that perfect golden, crispy coating once baked.
Step 5: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Once all of your tenders are coated in the mayo mixture and covered in crushed crackers, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Be sure to leave a little space between each tender so they can cook evenly. If you want an extra crispy texture, consider spraying the baking sheet lightly with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken Tenders
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the tenders for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them and make sure the tenders turn a beautiful golden brown. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the outside is crispy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the tenders are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. These tenders are fantastic on their own, but you can also serve them with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. A side of fries, vegetables, or a simple salad would also be great accompaniments.
Tips for Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders
While the recipe is fairly straightforward, here are a few helpful tips to make sure your Crack Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly every time:
1. Use Fresh Chicken Tenders
Fresh chicken tenders will give you the best texture and flavor. If you only have frozen chicken tenders, make sure to thaw them fully before starting the recipe.
2. Grate Your Own Parmesan Cheese
While pre-grated Parmesan cheese works fine, freshly grated Parmesan has a richer flavor and will melt better, adding a more delicious taste to the coating mixture. It’s worth the extra effort!
3. Adjust the Seasonings
If you love bold flavors, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic powder and onion powder in the mayo mixture. You can also add a pinch of paprika, cayenne pepper, or chili powder to give the tenders a little extra kick.
4. Make It Extra Crispy
For an extra crispy coating, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers, or combine the two for an even more crunch-worthy texture. You can also spray the chicken tenders lightly with cooking spray before baking to enhance the golden color and crispiness.
5. Watch the Cooking Time
Since chicken tenders cook quickly, be sure not to overbake them. Keep an eye on them in the oven to prevent them from drying out. If you have a meat thermometer, it’s always best to check the internal temperature to ensure they’re fully cooked.
6. Batch Cooking
If you’re preparing for a crowd, consider doubling the recipe. You can bake the tenders in two separate baking sheets if needed to ensure even cooking. Just remember to check the tenders toward the end of the cooking time to ensure everything is cooked through.
Serving Suggestions for Crack Chicken Tenders
These Crack Chicken Tenders are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making them a great option for any meal. Here are some ideas for how to enjoy them:
1. Classic with Fries
Pair your chicken tenders with crispy French fries or sweet potato fries for a classic combo that’s sure to please both kids and adults. Add a side of coleslaw or a green salad for balance.
2. As a Sandwich
Turn these tenders into delicious chicken sandwiches! Place the crispy tenders on a toasted bun and top with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and your favorite sauce. You can even add a slice of cheese for a cheesy twist.
3. Tenders and Dips
Serve the chicken tenders with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. The variety of dips will let everyone customize their flavor experience.
4. Chicken Tender Salad
For a lighter option, slice the cooked tenders and place them on top of a fresh green salad. Add your favorite salad veggies, some avocado, and a drizzle of ranch dressing or vinaigrette for a satisfying meal.
5. As Part of a Platter
Serve these tenders as part of a platter with other finger foods such as mozzarella sticks, onion rings, and vegetable sticks. This would make for an excellent appetizer spread for a party or game day.
6. With Mashed Potatoes or Mac and Cheese
For a more indulgent meal, serve your tenders with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese. The creamy sides complement the crispy tenders, creating a hearty and satisfying dinner.
Why You’ll Love These Crack Chicken Tenders
- Simple to Make: This recipe only requires a few ingredients and can be made in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekends when you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love crispy chicken tenders, and the creamy, cheesy coating makes them even more irresistible. These are sure to be a hit with picky eaters!
- Addictive Flavor: The combination of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and Ranch seasoning creates a flavor profile that’s both creamy and savory, while the Ritz crackers give the tenders the perfect amount of crunch.
- Versatile: These tenders can be served in so many different ways, making them a great option for family meals, gatherings, or meal prepping. Whether you’re making sandwiches, serving them as a snack, or enjoying them with a side of fries, they’re always a hit.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Tenders are the perfect recipe when you want something easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick baking time, you can enjoy these delicious tenders with minimal effort. Whether served as a snack, part of a larger meal, or even on their own, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite in your home. So, the next time you’re in the mood for crispy, savory chicken, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
