Crack Chicken Tenders

Introduction

If you’re looking for a quick and irresistible dinner that everyone will rave about, these Crack Chicken Tenders are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. My family absolutely loves this recipe! The chicken tenders come out perfectly crispy on the outside while staying juicy and tender on the inside. The combination of creamy mayonnaise, zesty Ranch seasoning, and rich Parmesan cheese creates a deliciously addictive coating that’s hard to resist. As if that wasn’t enough, the buttery Ritz cracker crust takes it over the top. These tenders are simple to make and the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something both flavorful and satisfying.

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

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to create a smooth, creamy mixture.
3. Coat each chicken tender thoroughly in the mayo mixture, ensuring it is completely covered.
4. Next, dredge each coated chicken tender in the crushed Ritz crackers. Gently press the crackers into the chicken to make sure it sticks.
5. Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Servings: 4 (based on 1 lb of chicken tenders)
• Calories per serving: 450 kcal
• Total Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 1,000mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 30g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the Crack Chicken Tenders with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.
• Pair the tenders with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
• For a more indulgent meal, serve alongside mac and cheese or a side of fries.
• Enjoy as a quick and easy weeknight dinner or as a tasty snack for a party or gathering.
• These tenders also make a great addition to meal prep. Simply store the leftovers for a quick lunch throughout the week.

Additional Tips

1. Add Spice: If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mayo mixture to spice up the tenders.
2. Crispier Coating: For extra crunch, double coat the chicken tenders by dipping them in the mayo mixture, followed by the Ritz crackers, then repeating the process for a second layer of coating.
3. Use Fresh Chicken: While you can use frozen chicken tenders, fresh chicken tends to produce a better texture and flavor. Make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before coating it to help the coating stick.
4. Ranch Seasoning Substitute: If you don’t have Ranch seasoning mix on hand, you can make your own by combining dried herbs like parsley, dill, chives, and garlic powder, or use a pre-made seasoning packet for chicken or salad dressing.
5. Ensure Even Cooking: For even cooking, avoid overcrowding the tenders on the baking sheet. Space them out so they bake evenly and get crisp on all sides.

Recipe Variations

1. Buffalo Crack Chicken Tenders: Add a tablespoon of buffalo sauce to the mayo mixture for a spicy twist that’s perfect for those who enjoy a little kick.
2. Parmesan Herb Coating: Swap out the Ritz crackers for Panko breadcrumbs mixed with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and basil to create a more Italian-inspired tender.
3. Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free crackers (such as rice crackers) or Panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative. Just ensure your mayonnaise and Ranch seasoning are also gluten-free.
4. Baked Chicken Nuggets: For a kid-friendly version, cut the chicken into smaller nugget-sized pieces, coat, and bake the same way.
5. Oven-Fried Chicken: Add a bit of olive oil to the mayo mixture and bake the tenders on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet to get an extra crispy “fried” texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with fresh vegetable sides like roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or a simple Caesar salad.
• Pair with a cool, creamy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast to the warm, crispy chicken.
• Offer up a light cucumber or tomato salad on the side to balance the richness of the tenders.
• For a more filling meal, pair the chicken tenders with a creamy pasta dish, such as macaroni and cheese or a buttery pasta salad.
• Add a side of baked sweet potato fries for a healthy yet indulgent twist on traditional French fries.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These chicken tenders can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, coat the chicken tenders and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. To bake, place frozen tenders on a baking sheet and cook at 375°F for an additional 5-10 minutes.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store the cooked tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.

FAQ

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

• Yes! You can cut chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces and follow the same steps.

1. Can I make these tenders ahead of time?

• Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken tenders in advance, coat them, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

1. Can I make these tenders spicy?

• Yes! Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mayo mixture for a spicy version.

1. What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?

• You can substitute with any type of cracker you have on hand, or even use breadcrumbs for a similar effect.

1. Can I bake the tenders in an air fryer?

• Yes, you can air fry these tenders. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook the tenders for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

1. What’s the best way to reheat these tenders?

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes for the crispiest results.

1. How can I make the tenders less greasy?

• Ensure that the chicken is well-coated in the mayo mixture without excess. Using a wire rack will also help the excess oil drip off while baking.

1. Can I fry these chicken tenders instead of baking them?

• Yes, you can fry the tenders in hot oil (about 350°F) for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

1. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

1. Can I use low-fat mayonnaise?

• Yes, using low-fat mayo will still work, but it might slightly affect the creaminess of the coating.

Conclusion

These Crack Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and flavorful, making them a dish everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a meal for a gathering, these tenders will be a hit. They’re easy to make, versatile, and can be paired with a variety of sides to create a satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn chicken tenders into an unforgettable treat. Give this recipe a try, and prepare to be amazed!

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