These Crack Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on a classic favorite! Perfect for any occasion, they bring together the irresistible crunch of Ritz crackers, the savory flavor of Ranch seasoning, and the richness of Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or needing a tasty snack for the kids, these tenders are sure to impress!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes in the oven, you can have a delicious meal ready in half an hour!
Kid-Friendly: These tenders are a hit with children and adults alike, making mealtime enjoyable for the whole family.
Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, add them to salads, or pair them with your favorite dipping sauces for a complete meal.
Flavor Packed: The combination of Ranch seasoning and crispy crackers ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Healthier Option: Baking instead of frying keeps these tenders lighter without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Mixing bowl
Whisk or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: A good baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning for your tenders.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy, allowing you to focus on enjoying your meal.

Ingredients

Chicken Tenders

1 lb. chicken tenders

Coating Mixture

½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder

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 it’s hot enough to give your tenders that perfect golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier later on.

Step 3: Mix the Coating Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. ½ cup mayonnaise
2. ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3. 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
4. ½ tsp garlic powder
5. ½ tsp onion powder

Stir until smooth and well blended.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Take each chicken tender and:
1. Dip it into the mayo mixture until fully coated.
2. Dredge it in crushed Ritz crackers, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out evenly for optimal cooking.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake the chicken tenders for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 7: Cool Slightly Before Serving

Allow the tenders to cool slightly before serving them with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy this flavorful dish!

How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders

Crack Chicken Tenders are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a family dinner, or simply snacking, these tenders can elevate any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of your delicious chicken tenders.

As an Appetizer

Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue for an exciting start to your meal.

In a Sandwich

Place the tenders inside a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato for a satisfying sandwich that’s perfect for lunch.

With Fresh Vegetables

Pair with crispy carrot sticks or celery for a crunchy contrast that adds freshness to your plate.

Over a Salad

Slice the cooked tenders and add them to a bed of mixed greens topped with your favorite dressing for a hearty salad option.

For Game Day

Set out trays of Crack Chicken Tenders as finger foods during game day gatherings; they’re sure to be a hit!

As Part of a Platter

Include them in a large platter alongside cheeses, crackers, and fruits for an impressive spread at parties.

How to Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders

To ensure your Crack Chicken Tenders come out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Use fresh chicken: Fresh tenders will provide better texture and flavor compared to frozen ones.
Don’t skimp on coating: Make sure each tender is generously coated in the mayo mixture and crushed crackers for maximum crunch.
Space them out: Arrange the tenders with space between them on the baking sheet to allow even cooking and crispiness.
Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken Tenders

Serving Crack Chicken Tenders with complementary sides can turn this dish into a full meal. Here are some great options:

Coleslaw: A refreshing side that adds crunch and balances the rich flavors of the tenders.
French Fries: Crispy fries are always a favorite and pair well with chicken tenders; consider sweet potato fries for something different.
Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese offers comfort and pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition while providing a tasty contrast.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is easy to prepare and complements the savory flavors of Crack Chicken Tenders nicely.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread makes it easy to soak up any leftover sauce while adding flavor to your meal.
Potato Salad: A classic side that’s creamy and cool, perfect for balancing out hot chicken tenders.
Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans add protein and richness to round out your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Crack Chicken Tenders from good to amazing. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and a crispy texture.
Skipping the Coating Process: Make sure to fully coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture and then dredge in crushed Ritz crackers. This step is crucial for that delicious crunchy exterior.
Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Give each tender space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of baking, affecting crispiness.
Ignoring Cooking Times: Keep an eye on your tenders while they bake. Cooking them for too long can lead to dryness; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Not Allowing to Cool: Letting the tenders cool slightly before serving helps maintain their texture and flavor. Serve them warm, but not straight out of the oven.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Crack Chicken Tenders in an airtight container.
They can last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crack Chicken Tenders

Place cooled tenders in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

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, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil. Cook until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have more questions about making Crack Chicken Tenders, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

How do I make Crack Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

You can substitute Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, maintaining the same flavor profile.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips if you prefer. Adjust cooking time as needed based on thickness.

What dipping sauces pair well with Crack Chicken Tenders?

Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce are fantastic choices that complement the flavors well.

How do I make Crack Chicken Tenders spicy?

Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mayo mixture for a spicy kick that enhances flavor without overwhelming it.

Final Thoughts

These Crack Chicken Tenders are not just easy to make; they also offer incredible flavor and versatility. Perfect as appetizers or main dishes, they can be customized with different spices or dipping sauces according to your preference. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe today and experience a delightful meal that your whole family will love!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Crack Chicken Tenders

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Ana
Total Time: 0 hours
Yield: Approx. 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Discover the irresistible delight of Crack Chicken Tenders! This recipe offers a fantastic twist on a classic favorite, combining the satisfying crunch of Ritz crackers with the savory flavors of Ranch seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for game day, weeknight dinners, or as a quick snack, these chicken tenders are sure to impress both kids and adults alike. With minimal prep time and a simple baking process, you can enjoy this flavorful dish in just about half an hour. Serve them as appetizers with your favorite dipping sauces, toss them into salads, or enjoy them as a hearty main course. Get ready for an unforgettable meal that will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb. chicken tenders
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
½ cup crushed Ritz crackers
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°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, then dredge in crushed Ritz crackers.
Arrange coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American