Crack Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food—a delicious combination of crispy crust, creamy interior, and a burst of flavor in every bite. This savory dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients with Quantities
Here’s a detailed list of ingredients you’ll need to prepare these delectable Crack Chicken Tenders:
- Chicken Tenders: 1 lb (approximately 8-10 tenders)
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup
- Ranch Seasoning Mix: 1 packet (1 oz)
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 tsp
- Onion Powder: 1/2 tsp
- Crushed Ritz Crackers: 1 cup (or any buttery crackers)
Directions and Preparation Method
Preheat the Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is ready to bake the tenders evenly.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Prepare the Coating Mixture
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. This creamy mixture will act as both the adhesive and flavor base for the chicken tenders.
Coat the Chicken
- Take each chicken tender and dip it into the mayonnaise mixture. Make sure each tender is generously coated on all sides. This step ensures the crackers stick properly and adds the creamy texture inside.
Add the Crust
- Place 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers in a shallow dish.
- Roll each coated chicken tender in the crushed crackers, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere firmly. The crackers provide a buttery, crispy texture to the tenders.
Bake the Chicken Tenders
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. This allows the heat to circulate evenly for a crispier crust.
- Bake the tenders in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- When done, the tenders should have a golden-brown, crispy crust.
Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
- Pair with sides like mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mayonnaise mixture for a spicy kick.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the tenders up to 2 days in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
- Extra Crispy: Lightly spray the coated tenders with cooking spray before baking to enhance their crispiness.
- Uniform Size: Use chicken tenders of similar size to ensure even cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes! You can slice chicken breasts into strips to create tenders. Ensure they’re of uniform size for even cooking.
2. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative and provides a similar creamy texture.
3. What’s a good substitute for Ritz crackers?
Panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes are excellent alternatives that provide a similar crunch.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs, and ensure your Ranch seasoning mix is gluten-free.
6. Can I air fry these chicken tenders?
Certainly! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the tenders for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Tenders are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that combines the creamy richness of Parmesan and mayonnaise with the irresistible crunch of buttery crackers. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, a party, or a casual gathering, they’re sure to be a hit. Customize the recipe to your liking, experiment with different seasonings, and enjoy this easy-to-make comfort food anytime. Try this recipe today and indulge in the perfect blend of flavor and texture!