Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful Coating: The combination of ranch seasoning and cheeses creates a savory and addictive taste.
Crispy Texture: Crushed crackers provide a satisfying crunch that complements the tender chicken.
Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible even for novice cooks.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1½ pounds chicken tenders
1 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil or cooking spray

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Prepare the Coating Mixtures:
- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise) with the ranch seasoning mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, crushed Ritz crackers, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
Coat the Chicken:
- Dip each chicken tender into the yogurt mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Press the coated chicken into the cheese and cracker mixture, covering all sides thoroughly.
Arrange and Bake:
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Allow the tenders to cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch dressing.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the coating mixture for a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Alternative Coatings: Substitute crushed Ritz crackers with panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a different texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Once cooled, store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

Is there a substitute for ranch seasoning mix?

If you don’t have a ranch seasoning mix, you can create a homemade blend using dried herbs such as dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.

Can I prepare these chicken tenders in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the tenders in a single layer for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

What dipping sauces pair well with Crack Chicken Tenders?

Popular choices include ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

How can I make the coating stick better to the chicken?

Ensuring the chicken is patted dry before coating can help the mixture adhere better. Additionally, pressing the coating firmly onto the chicken can enhance adhesion.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Tenders offer a delectable combination of flavors and textures that are sure to please both kids and adults alike. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, complemented by the savory blend of cheeses and ranch seasoning, these tenders make for a satisfying meal or appetizer. Easy to prepare and versatile, this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious twist on a classic favorite