Pin Recipe These Crack Chicken Tenders are insanely flavorful, juicy, and coated in a crispy, cheesy crust. Made with a creamy ranch-seasoned mayo mix and crushed Ritz crackers, theyre perfect for a quick family dinner or crowd-pleasing party snack. Addictive in the best way.
The first time I made these, they disappeared from the table before I could grab seconds. The crispy coating and creamy ranch flavor make them everyone&s favorite.
Ingredients
- Chicken Tenders: 1 lb, fresh or thawed
- Mayonnaise: ½ cup, helps keep tenders juicy
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated
- Ranch Seasoning Mix: 1 packet, for flavor
- Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon
- Onion Powder: ½ teaspoon
- Ritz Crackers: 1 cup, crushed for a crispy coating
Instructions
- Prepare oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix coating:
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until combined.
- Coat chicken:
- Spread mayo mixture over each chicken tender to coat evenly.
- Add cracker crust:
- Press each tender into the crushed Ritz crackers, coating both sides well.
- Bake:
- Place coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and coating is golden brown.
- Rest & serve:
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pin Recipe My kids always request these for birthday dinners, and the leftovers rarely make it past lunch the next day. It&s become a family favorite for busy nights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard, or alongside fries and a crisp salad for a full meal.
Make Ahead & Storing
Prepare up to coating, cover and refrigerate. Leftovers keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat well in the oven or air fryer.
Variations
Swap Ritz crackers for panko or gluten-free crackers. Add a pinch of cayenne for heat or use different cheese blends for unique flavor.
Pin Recipe Enjoy these Crack Chicken Tenders hot, and don&t forget extra dipping sauce for maximum flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, slice chicken breasts into strips for similar results and adjust bake time if needed.
- → How do I make the crust extra crispy?
Lightly spray the coated tenders with cooking spray before baking to boost crunchiness.
- → Can I substitute mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt or sour cream may work, but mayonnaise gives the best creamy texture and flavor.
- → Are Ritz crackers necessary?
Other buttery, flaky crackers or panko breadcrumbs can be used for a similar crispy result.
- → What's the best dipping sauce?
Ranch, honey mustard, and barbecue pair especially well with these savory chicken tenders.
- → Can these be made ahead?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate before baking, or bake and reheat briefly for serving later.