Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

Introduction

Crack Chicken Tenders are a delicious, cheesy, and crispy dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying snack. Coated in a flavorful ranch-seasoned crust, these tenders are sure to become a family favorite.

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
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise) with the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful coating.
3. Step 3: Dip each chicken tender into the yogurt mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Step 5: Press each coated chicken tender into the cheese and cracker mixture, making sure it adheres well for a crispy crust.
6. Step 6: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle a little olive oil over the top to help achieve a golden finish.
7. Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and allow the tenders to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Swap Greek yogurt for plant-based yogurt or vegan mayonnaise for a dairy-free option.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers if you need a gluten-free version.
• For extra crispiness, broil the tenders for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Storage

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to keep the crust crispy. Avoid microwaving as this can make the coating soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, regular mayonnaise works well as a coating base and adds richness. Greek yogurt offers a tangier flavor and is lower in fat, so use whichever you prefer.

How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?

Chicken tenders are cooked when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). They should be white and opaque throughout with no pinkness. Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method.

Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 95 reviews

This Crack Chicken Tenders recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken coated with a flavorful ranch seasoning and a crispy, cheesy crust. Featuring a creamy Greek yogurt base mixed with ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar, and Parmesan cheese, these chicken tenders are baked until golden and bubbly, making for an irresistible appetizer or main dish that’s simple to prepare.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Coating:

• 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, for greasing

Optional Substitutions:

• Swap Greek yogurt for plant-based yogurt or vegan mayonnaise for a dairy-free option
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if avoiding gluten

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking and help the chicken develop a golden crust.
2. Prepare Coating Mixture: In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning mix, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed, forming a creamy, seasoned base for the chicken.
3. Coat Chicken Tenders: Add the chicken tenders into the bowl and toss them gently but thoroughly until each piece is fully coated with the yogurt and cheese mixture.
4. Apply Crust: Transfer the crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs to a shallow dish. Roll each coated chicken tender in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure an even, crispy crust forms all around.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching for even cooking.
6. Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Crack Chicken Tenders with your favorite dipping sauce or side dish.

Notes

• You can substitute mayonnaise for Greek yogurt if preferred, but yogurt adds tang and reduces fat.
• For a dairy-free version, use plant-based yogurt or vegan mayonnaise and skip the cheese or find vegan cheese alternatives.
• Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a great swap for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to allow proper crisping.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (74°C).

Keywords: Crack chicken tenders, crispy chicken, cheesy chicken tenders, ranch chicken recipe, baked chicken tenders