Crack Chicken Tenders are the ultimate family-friendly meal that combines crispy textures with rich flavors. These tenders are not just easy to prepare; they are also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for game day, this recipe for crispy crack chicken tenders will keep everyone coming back for more. With a delightful coating made from Ritz crackers and a creamy ranch mixture, each bite is packed with flavor that your family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Tenders
These crack chicken tenders are not only quick to make but also cater to various tastes and preferences. Here are a few reasons why they are so popular:
- Deliciously crispy texture that kids and adults adore.
- Easy preparation, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile – enjoy them as appetizers or main dishes.
- Great for meal prep, ensuring you have tasty meals ready to go.
- Can be customized with different spices or sauces, like spicy crack chicken tenders.
- Perfect for game day gatherings alongside your favorite dips, such as crack chicken tenders with BBQ sauce.
- They are gluten-free, making them suitable for various diets.
Ingredients for Crack Chicken Tenders
Gather these items:
- 1 cup Ritz Crackers (finely crushed)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
- 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 pound Chicken Tenders
How to Make Crack Chicken Tenders Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Step 2: Mix together mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Step 3: Coat each chicken tender in the mayonnaise mixture, then dredge in crushed Ritz crackers.
- Step 4: Arrange the coated tenders on the baking sheet, spacing them out evenly.
- Step 5: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Step 6: Cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure the chicken tenders are evenly coated for consistent cooking.
- Experiment with different toppings or spices to find your family’s favorite.
- For extra crunch, consider using a combination of crushed crackers and breadcrumbs.
- These tenders can be made in advance and reheated for convenience, following the method of baking.
Best Ways to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders
These tenders are versatile and can be served in various ways:
- Serve them with crack chicken tenders with ranch dressing for a classic flavor combination.
- Pair with a side of veggies or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Perfect for dipping in sauces like BBQ or honey mustard, especially during game day.
How to Store and Reheat Crack Chicken Tenders
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method helps maintain their crispy texture. Meal prep enthusiasts will find this method particularly useful.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crack Chicken Tenders
What’s the secret to perfect Crack Chicken Tenders?
The secret is in the coating! A mixture of mayonnaise and seasoning helps keep the chicken tender while the Ritz cracker crust provides that sought-after crispiness. This makes them irresistible and a hit with both kids and adults.
Can I make Crack Chicken Tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tenders ahead of time by coating them and placing them in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply bake them as instructed. This is an excellent way to have a quick meal ready for busy evenings.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Crack Chicken Tenders?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure the chicken is patted dry before coating, which helps the mixture stick better. Additionally, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
Variations of Crack Chicken Tenders You Can Try
Feel free to try these variations to suit your taste:
- Spicy Crack Chicken Tenders: Add cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the mayonnaise mixture.
- Baked Crack Chicken Tenders: For a healthier twist, bake instead of frying while using whole grain crackers.
- Crack Chicken Fingers: Cut the chicken into thinner strips for smaller portions for kids.
- Gluten-free Crack Chicken Tenders: Substitute regular crackers with gluten-free options to cater to dietary needs.
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For more delicious recipes, check out this link for meal prep ideas, this recipe for a tasty side dish, and this article on cooking tips. You can also learn about the benefits of gluten-free diets here.
PrintCrispy Crack Chicken Tenders Your Family Will Love
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy Crack Chicken Tenders Your Family Will Devour
Ingredients
- 1 cup Ritz Crackers (finely crushed)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
- 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 pound Chicken Tenders
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix together mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Coat each chicken tender in the mayonnaise mixture, then dredge in crushed Ritz crackers.
- Arrange the coated tenders on the baking sheet, spacing them out evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Crack Chicken Tenders







