Description
Crack Chicken Tenders take classic comfort food to the next level! These crispy, cheesy tenders are coated in a crunchy Ritz cracker and Parmesan crust, infused with savory ranch seasoning, and baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a casual get-together, or simply indulging in a crispy treat, this easy recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders (trimmed and ready to use)
- 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)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a mixing bowl, blend Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise) and ranch seasoning until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, crushed crackers, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Dip each chicken tender into the yogurt mixture, ensuring an even coat.
- Press the coated chicken into the cheese and cracker mixture, fully covering each piece.
- Bake Until Crispy:
- Arrange the tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue.
Notes
- For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers.
- Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.
- Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes for an even crispier finish.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American