Crack Chicken Tenders

Name: Crack Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders; ½ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers

Published: February 16, 2026

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With only a few steps and minimal prep time, you can have dinner ready in no time.
Flavor Packed: The combination of Parmesan cheese and Ranch seasoning creates a savory taste that’s irresistible.
Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish—ideal for any occasion!
Family-Friendly: Kids love these tenders, making mealtime a breeze.
Crispy Texture: The Ritz cracker coating gives each tender a satisfying crunch.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help you achieve the best results with your Crack Chicken Tenders.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking, ensuring that your tenders bake evenly without sticking.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
Mixing bowl: Allows you to easily combine ingredients without mess.
Whisk or spoon: Helps achieve a smooth mayo mixture for coating the chicken.

Ingredients

These Crack Chicken Tenders feature simple ingredients that come together for maximum flavor!

For the Chicken Tenders

1 lb. chicken tenders
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
1 cup Ritz crackers (crushed)

How to Make Crack Chicken Tenders

Follow this easy process to create your delicious Crack Chicken Tenders!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your tenders cook evenly and become golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

Step 3: Mix the Coating Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until smooth.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Coat each chicken tender in the mayo mixture. Then dredge in crushed Ritz crackers, pressing down gently to ensure the coating sticks well.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out for even cooking.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through. Check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Let the tenders cool slightly before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor!

How to Serve Crack Chicken Tenders

These Crack Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or part of a main meal, these tenders will please everyone at the table.

As a Snack

Dipping Sauces: Pair with your favorite sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue for added flavor.
Veggie Sticks: Serve alongside fresh carrot or celery sticks for a crunchy contrast.

For Game Day

Finger Food Platter: Create a platter with Crack Chicken Tenders, chips, and dips for an easy game day spread.
Mini Sliders: Use small buns to make sliders, adding lettuce and tomato for a delicious twist.

As a Main Course

With Salad: Serve on top of a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for a light meal.
With Fries: Pair with sweet potato fries or classic French fries for a hearty option.

How to Perfect Crack Chicken Tenders

To ensure your Crack Chicken Tenders turn out crispy and flavorful every time, follow these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality cheese enhance the flavor significantly.
Ensure Coating Sticks: Press the crushed Ritz crackers firmly onto the tenders to create a thick crust.
Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Spacing out the tenders allows hot air to circulate, ensuring an even cook.
Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to make sure chicken reaches 165°F for safe eating.
Let Them Rest: Allow the tenders to cool slightly after baking; this helps retain their juiciness.

Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken Tenders

Crack Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavor and texture. Here’s a selection of tasty options.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balance to the savory tenders.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs perfectly for a delightful summer vibe.
Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables with olive oil and roast them until tender for added nutrition.
Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese provides indulgence alongside the crispy tenders.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad offers a light contrast to the richness of the tenders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crack Chicken Tenders, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the coating – Failing to coat the chicken tenders properly can lead to dry results. Ensure each tender is well-covered in the mayo mixture and crushed crackers.
Not preheating the oven – Baking in a cold oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before placing your tenders inside.
Overcrowding the baking sheet – Placing tenders too close together may prevent them from getting crispy. Arrange them with space in between for even air circulation.
Ignoring cooking time – Cooking for too long or too short can lead to either burnt or undercooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Using stale crackers – Old crackers won’t provide the desired crunch. Always use fresh, crisp Ritz crackers for the best flavor and texture.
Neglecting dipping sauces – Not serving with a dipping sauce can make your dish less enjoyable. Pair your tenders with ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crack Chicken Tenders

Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crack Chicken Tenders

Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave – Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crack Chicken Tenders:

How do I make Crack Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

You can substitute regular Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Turkey tenders work perfectly as a substitute while still maintaining great flavor and texture.

What dipping sauces pair well with Crack Chicken Tenders?

Popular options include ranch dressing, sweet chili sauce, or homemade BBQ sauce. Experiment to find your favorite!

How long does it take to cook Crack Chicken Tenders?

The cooking time is approximately 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C), depending on their thickness.

Can I make these tenders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to the baking stage and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Crack Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you serve them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, they are sure to impress everyone at your table. Feel free to customize with different seasonings or serve alongside various dipping sauces for extra flair!

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