Ready for a dinner that’s crispy, cheesy, and downright addictive? Crack Chicken Tenders combine ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and a crunchy coating for a family-friendly meal that’s better than takeout. These Crispy Chicken Tenders are perfect for busy weeknights or fun gatherings, ready in just 35 minutes. Packed with flavor and easy to make, Crack Chicken Tenders will become your new go-to comfort food. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Crack Chicken Tenders
Here’s what you’ll need for Crack Chicken Tenders (makes ~12 tenders, serves 4):
For the Tenders:
- 1 ½ lbs (680g) chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips)
- 1 cup (240g) plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
- 1 oz (28g) ranch seasoning mix (1 packet)
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ¾ cup (60g) crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs)
- 1 tsp (3g) garlic powder
- 1 tsp (2g) smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp (1g) black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil, for baking
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Two shallow dishes (for coating)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or wire rack
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredient Tips
- Chicken Tenders: Use pre-cut tenders or slice breasts into strips for uniform Crispy Chicken Tenders.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess; swap with vegan mayo for dairy-free tenders.
- Ritz Crackers: Crush finely for crunch; panko or gluten-free breadcrumbs work too.
- Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded melts best; use vegan cheese for dietary needs.
- Ranch Seasoning: Store-bought or homemade for that signature flavor.
Directions for Crack Chicken Tenders
Let’s make these irresistible Crispy Chicken Tenders!
Preheat the Oven
I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on it, lightly coated with cooking spray.
Prepare the Coating
In a large bowl, I mix 1 cup Greek yogurt with 1 oz ranch seasoning until smooth. In a shallow dish, I combine 1 cup shredded cheddar, ½ cup Parmesan, ¾ cup crushed Ritz crackers, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and ¼ tsp black pepper for flavorful Crack Chicken Tenders.
Coat the Chicken
I dip each chicken tender in the yogurt mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, then press it into the cheese-cracker mixture, coating evenly. I place the tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack.
Bake to Perfection
I lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for extra crispiness. I bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
Serve
I serve the tenders hot with dipping sauces like honey mustard or barbecue, savoring their cheesy crunch.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 (~3 tenders each, ~150g per serving)
- Calories: ~320 kcal per serving
- Macros per Serving: 14g carbs, 25g protein, 18g fat, 1g fiber
- Calcium: ~15% of Daily Value
Nutrition Disclaimer
Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions. For precise values, consult a nutrition calculator.
Variations for Crack Chicken Tenders
Try these twists on Crispy Chicken Tenders:
- Spicy Ranch: Add ½ tsp cayenne to the coating for a fiery kick.
- Herb Delight: Mix 1 tsp dried Italian herbs into the coating, inspired by Food and Tips’ Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken.
- Bacon Boost: Add 2 tbsp crumbled bacon to the coating for smoky flavor.
- Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, for a lighter option.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs and ensure ranch seasoning is gluten-free.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Food and Tips’ Vanilla Raspberry Iced Latte for a fun meal.
- Serve with Food and Tips’ Cucumber Blueberry Feta Salad for a fresh contrast.
- Enjoy with Food and Tips’ Coconut Cooler for a refreshing touch.
Storage
I let the tenders cool, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them crispy. For freezing, I place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. I reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 10–12 minutes (15–18 minutes if frozen) to restore crunch, avoiding the microwave to prevent sogginess.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Arrange tenders on a platter with colorful dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing look.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh touch.
- Pairing: Serve with sweet potato fries, a crisp salad, or Food and Tips’ Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken for a hearty meal.
- Portion Size: 3 tenders per serving for dinner; 1–2 for a snack.
- Occasions: Perfect for weeknight dinners, kid-friendly meals, or game-day snacks with Crack Chicken Tenders.
FAQs About Crack Chicken Tenders
Here are answers to common questions about making Crack Chicken Tenders:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, slice chicken breasts into strips for tender-like shapes and adjust cooking time as needed.
What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
Panko, crushed cornflakes, or gluten-free breadcrumbs work great for a crispy coating.
How do I make these tenders dairy-free?
Use vegan mayo, dairy-free cheese, and nutritional yeast instead of Greek yogurt, cheddar, and Parmesan.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, for crispy Crack Chicken Tenders.
What dipping sauces pair best?
Honey mustard, barbecue, ranch, or sriracha mayo complement the cheesy flavor perfectly.
More High-Protein Meals You’ll Love
- High Protein Chicken Orzo: A Creamy, Healthy One-Pan Delight
- Protein Bagels
- Easy Baked Salmon Recipe: A Flavorful, Healthy Dinner
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food—crispy, cheesy, and packed with ranch flavor. Ready in just 35 minutes, they’re ideal for family dinners or entertaining. Try Crack Chicken Tenders and enjoy a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a favorite!
Crack Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs 680g chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips)
- 1 cup 240g plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
- 1 oz 28g ranch seasoning mix (1 packet)
- 1 cup 100g shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- ¾ cup 60g crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs)
- 1 tsp 3g garlic powder
- 1 tsp 2g smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp 1g black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil for baking
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on it, lightly coated with cooking spray.
Prepare the Coating
- In a large bowl, I mix 1 cup Greek yogurt with 1 oz ranch seasoning until smooth. In a shallow dish, I combine 1 cup shredded cheddar, ½ cup Parmesan, ¾ cup crushed Ritz crackers, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and ¼ tsp black pepper for flavorful Crack Chicken Tenders.
Coat the Chicken
- I dip each chicken tender in the yogurt mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, then press it into the cheese-cracker mixture, coating evenly. I place the tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack.
Bake to Perfection
- I lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for extra crispiness. I bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
Serve
- I serve the tenders hot with dipping sauces like honey mustard or barbecue, savoring their cheesy crunch.
Notes
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese can contain anti-caking agents that affect texture.
- Don’t Overcoat: Avoid overly thick coatings to ensure the crust adheres properly and crisps up evenly.
- Customize the Seasoning: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or Italian herbs for a personalized twist.
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