Crack Chicken Tenders
These Crack Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for any occasion. With their crispy, flavorful coating and tender chicken, they are an excellent choice for snacks, appetizers, or as a main dish. Easy to prepare and packed with taste, these tenders will quickly become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, these tenders fit perfectly into busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of Ranch seasoning and Parmesan creates a savory coating that is simply irresistible.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish—ideal for parties or family dinners.
- Kid-Friendly Meal: Kids love the crunchy texture and delicious flavors, making it a great option for picky eaters.
- Baked Not Fried: Healthier than traditional fried chicken tenders, giving you guilt-free indulgence.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Crack Chicken Tenders efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can simplify your cooking process and ensure better results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for even cooking of the chicken tenders.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
- Whisk: Helps to blend the mayo mixture thoroughly for an even coating on the chicken.
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 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) to ensure it’s hot enough for even baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking during cooking.
Step 3: Mix the Coating Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp onion powder. Whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture thoroughly. Then dredge them in crushed Ritz crackers, pressing down gently to make sure they stick well.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced out evenly to allow proper cooking.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown
Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. Cook until golden brown and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow your Crack Chicken Tenders to cool slightly before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor!
Enjoy this delicious recipe that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!
How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders
Crack Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or just having a casual family dinner, these tenders will always be a hit. Here are some delicious serving suggestions.
As a Snack
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with your favorite sauces like ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard for an extra flavor boost.
- Vegetable Platter: Pair with fresh veggies like carrots and celery for a crunchy contrast.
In a Sandwich
- Chicken Tender Sandwich: Place the tenders in a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and your choice of sauce for a filling meal.
- Wrap It Up: Use a tortilla to wrap the chicken tenders along with some greens and ranch dressing for a quick lunch option.
As an Appetizer
- Party Platter: Arrange the tenders on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving at gatherings.
- Mini Sliders: Cut the tenders into smaller pieces and serve on slider buns with toppings of your choice.
For Kids’ Meals
- Fun Shapes: Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes from the tender pieces for an appealing kids’ meal.
- Bento Box Style: Include Crack Chicken Tenders in a bento box alongside fruit and snacks for a balanced lunch.
How to Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders
To ensure your Crack Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Coating Technique: Make sure to press the crushed Ritz crackers firmly onto the chicken. This helps create that desired crispy texture.
- Proper Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven adequately to ensure even cooking throughout. An oven thermometer can help confirm accuracy.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mayonnaise and recently grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the flavor significantly compared to older ingredients.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Space out the chicken tenders on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Check the internal temperature of 165°F towards the end of cooking. Ovens can vary, so adjust baking time as needed.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the tenders rest for a few minutes after baking allows juices to redistribute, making them more flavorful.
Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken Tenders
Pairing side dishes with your Crack Chicken Tenders can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement these flavorful tenders well.
- Crispy Fries: Classic French fries or sweet potato fries add crunch and pair perfectly with dipping sauces.
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides freshness and balances out the richness of the chicken tenders.
- Macaroni and Cheese: This comforting side is always a crowd-pleaser, especially with kids!
- Green Salad: A simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette brings lightness to your plate.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is an easy side dish for summer meals.
- Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf offers texture and complements the savory flavors of Crack Chicken Tenders nicely.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables provide color and nutrients while complementing the dish’s overall taste.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crack Chicken Tenders, it’s easy to make a few missteps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to add enough Ranch seasoning can lead to bland tenders. Always measure your seasoning and taste the mayo mixture before coating the chicken.
- Not crushing crackers properly: If the Ritz crackers are not crushed finely enough, they won’t stick well to the chicken. Use a food processor or a rolling pin to crush them into fine crumbs.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many tenders close together can result in uneven cooking. Space them out on the baking sheet for optimal crispiness.
- Ignoring cooking time: Not baking long enough can leave the tenders undercooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Skipping cooling time: Cutting into the tenders right after baking can cause juices to escape, resulting in dry meat. Let them cool slightly for better texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Crack Chicken Tenders in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Crack Chicken Tenders
- Place cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Crack Chicken Tenders
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes but be aware that this may make them less crispy.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil if needed, until heated through and crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Crack Chicken Tenders, you’re not alone! Here are some answers that might help.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders for Crack Chicken Tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips. Just adjust the cooking time as larger pieces may take longer.
How do I make these tenders gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Crack Chicken Tenders, substitute Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
What dipping sauces pair well with Crack Chicken Tenders?
These tenders go well with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce for added flavor!
Can I bake these tenders in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air frying Crack Chicken Tenders gives them an even crispier texture. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Crack Chicken Tenders are a delightful treat that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Their crispy exterior and savory flavor make them perfect as an appetizer or main dish. Feel free to customize them with different seasonings or dipping sauces to suit your taste preferences!
Crack Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Crack Chicken Tenders are a delicious twist on a classic favorite that the whole family will love. With their crispy coating made from crushed Ritz crackers, Ranch seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, these tenders are packed with flavor and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, they can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish. Baked instead of fried, they offer a healthier option without sacrificing taste. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces for an irresistible treat that will quickly become a staple in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder; whisk until smooth.
- Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture and dredge in crushed Ritz crackers.
- Arrange the coated tenders on the baking sheet, spaced evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauces.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 tenders (120g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
